Above / Donations from the community, employees and employer matching at CityGate Centre support #ChefsForUkraine and the World Central Kitchen (WCK) humanitarian initiative to set up food trucks that help provide meals near the Ukrainian border. (WCK photo courtesy CityGate Hospitality)
Update, March 31, 2022 / Chef José Andrés continues to set up food stations along Poland’s border and in locations toward the capital of Ukraine, partnering with 85 restaurants in seven countries to fulfil his humanitarian mission. Andrés’ World Central Kitchen has been feeding families in need, serving 300,000 meals a day to individuals he considers “people of goodness” who need unity in their quest for “democracy, liberty and what is right.”
All donations, any amount, are appreciated. Click here to contribute to World Central Kitchen.
Original Post, March 21, 2022 / With the support of their community and their employees, CityGate Hospitality’s and Calamos Investments’ combined effort to support humanitarian efforts in the Ukraine was an overwhelming success, raising $31,601.30 last week on March 15. The funds support World Central Kitchen (WCK), the organization founded and led by Michelin Star Chef José Andrés, which has been in and at the border of Ukraine providing meals to those fleeing their homeland for safety and those remaining in the war-torn country to protect it.
Humanitarian effort supported by community and employees
The community effort was sparked by CityGate Grille Manager Tom Meehan’s suggestion that a fundraiser for Ukraine be held at the restaurant. His idea was not only embraced but expanded to all five restaurants and bars at CityGate Centre: CityGate Grille, Che Figata, Tap In Pub, Lavazza and Zorba Cocktail Bar which, on March 15, donated 30 percent of proceeds to WCK’s #ChefsForUkraine effort. That amount was matched by Calamos Investments, doubling the community-driven contribution to more than $13,000.
The balance of the more than $30,000 raised came in direct donations by employees of both CityGate Hospitality and Calamos Investments, with employer matching.
“Our hearts ache when we see the images of Ukrainian people just trying to survive,” noted CityGate Hospitality SVP and COO Mae Calamos. “John [Calamos, Sr.] and I are hopeful this will help —even just a little bit — to make things better.”
Mae Calamos added that she and her husband were profoundly moved when learning of the results of the fundraiser.
“It reminds us what wonderful place our community really is, and how deeply we all care for humanity,” she said. “We want everyone to know how sincerely thankful we are for joining us in this effort.”
WCK’s efforts in Ukraine are ongoing. Direct donations continue to be accepted at wck.org/relief.
Report submitted by CityGate Hospitality.
