In response to an Israel Defense Forces attack in Gaza that tragically killed seven aid workers from World Central Kitchen (WCK), restaurants in the United States are rallying to raise money for the humanitarian organization. This includes establishments in both North and South Carolina who are joining the cause.
Benevolent Spirits, a hospitality fundraising group based in Asheville, is leading the charge to support WCK. They have organized a fundraising initiative where participating bars and restaurants will designate a specific cocktail or non-alcoholic beverage for the cause. Whenever a customer orders that designated drink, the establishment will donate $1 to WCK. For example, Chai Pani and Botiwalla will donate $1 for every mango lassi ordered at their various locations.
Several restaurants in the Carolinas have already committed to participating in this fundraising effort. These include well-known establishments such as Chai Pani, Botiwalla, Cúrate, La Bodega, Ajja, Chubby Fish, and more.
World Central Kitchen made history by becoming the first organization to successfully send aid to Gaza by ship. The Open Arms ship, carrying 200 tons of food, arrived in the area on March 15. Chef José Andrés founded WCK in 2010 following a devastating earthquake in Haiti.
The Benevolent Spirits fundraising campaign will continue until May 12. Other restaurants interested in supporting WCK can sign up to participate in the initiative.