Local Chefs Help Feed Struggling Hospitality Industry Colleagues

A group of local chefs in Winston-Salem is teaming up to help their colleagues hit hard by the COVID-19 outbreak. Many restaurant employees are getting laid-off without paid sick leave or health benefits. 

The relief project began when the head of Providence Restaurant and Catering sent out an email to nearly 100 local culinary professionals, many out-of-work themselves. Facing coolers full of unused food, a plan was hashed out. Chefs at closed restaurants would donate their produce, and serve meals to hospitality staff in need.

They're prepared in Providence's recently closed location — 100 boxed meals a day. Executive director Jeff Bacon says a rotating group of lead chefs and their teams are all chipping in.

"The main thing is how willing people who are in the right mindset are to reach out and help their neighbors — the culinary community especially," says Bacon. "So, I think that staying busy and helping your neighbor is the best antidote for fear that is out there."

Recipients will pick up meals outside the restaurant at 200 West Second Street from 2-4 p.m., and social distancing is enforced. 

For the most up-to-date information on coronavirus in North Carolina, visit our Live Updates blog here.