Supporting the Food Services Industry and its Workers During this Crisis

The hospitality, restaurant, and food service industry has been hit fast and hard by the coronavirus pandemic. Yet, we are heartened to see the efforts that have quickly emerged in a rally to support these businesses and their workers.

In the same week that Mayor Walsh made the announcement that bars and restaurants must dramatically scale back their operations, his office compiled and published a comprehensive guide so that Boston residents can find local restaurants that remain open during the crisis for takeout and delivery. (At the time writing, Governor Charlie Baker has ordered that all non-essential businesses must close. Grocery stores are exempt, and restaurants can still offer takeout and delivery as long as they adhere to social distancing).

Boston Eater has compiled a list of ways to support industry workers and restaurants directly, which includes small crowdfunding campaigns geared toward supporting service staff. And restauranteurs are getting creative about how to keep on cooking, while supporting their community – like Chefs Andy Husbands of the Smoke Shop and Joanne Cheng of Flour Bakery + Café who have put together a virtual BBQ and pastry “Pop Up” for pick up only. It was just last spring that NECAT hosted these two Best of Boston greats for a fundraiser at our training center.

NECAT is working hard to ensure that our participants and graduates who have been affected by layoffs and closures are getting the resources they need during these challenging times. We are ensuring they have the necessary tools to apply for unemployment, for SNAP benefits, or to get meals for themselves and their families.

You can also ensure that NECAT continues to help those most in need by making a direct donation us here.