LONDON, ON. August 6, 2020 – To further support the local restaurant industry impacted by COVID-19, Club House® for Chefs and McCormick Canada has teamed up with five organizations to create the London-Middlesex Restaurant Support Fund. In partnering with Pillar Nonprofit Network, the Middlesex London Food Policy Council, rTraction and the Western Fair District, this fund offers up to $1,000 in grants to qualifying London-Middlesex-based, independent operators of restaurants and bars in need of financial assistance as they adapt their businesses through the pandemic crisis.
Club House for Chefs and McCormick Canada started the fund with a $30,000 contribution. 100% of the funds will go directly to operators in need. Businesses and individuals are encouraged to contribute to help as many operators as possible on the road to recovery.
Applications open on August 13 and will be fulfilled on a rolling basis until the funds are exhausted. To qualify for grant assistance, independent restaurant and bar operators in the greater London area must fill out the online application and follow the instructions.
“We’re proud to have been a part of this community for more than 137 years and we know restaurants are an integral part of the fabric of our community,” said Anna Stolee, Senior Director of Sales and Marketing at Club House for Chefs. “Amidst the pandemic, restaurateurs are struggling, and we’ve been trying to help them get back on their feet with solutions geared for takeout. Even as restaurants are reopening, it’s not a return to normal business as they face increased costs to maintain safe operations on already slim margins. We know there’s a long road ahead, but we hope this fund can help alleviate some of that burden.”
Michelle Baldwin, Executive Director of Pillar Nonprofit Network, said, "One of Pillar's core priorities is sparking collaboration between nonprofits, businesses and government to solve problems and help build a vibrant community. We know how much independent restaurant operators will appreciate this support, and we're glad we could help nonprofits team up with local businesses to make it happen."
Contributions are being accepted now. After learning about the initiative prior, Libro Credit Union was the first company to offer support, pledging $2,000. Companies and individuals who wish to participate can visit www.lmrsf.ca for more information.
Starting on August 13, operators can apply for a grant at www.lmrsf.ca.
Media Note: Please click here for a high-resolution logo and images to promote the fund.
About Club House for Chefs
Club House for Chefs provides flavour and menu solutions for Canada’s foodservice professionals, offering a wide range of flavourful products in its portfolio, from leading flavour brands like Billy Bee, Cattlemen’s, Club House, Frank’s RedHot, French’s, Hy’s, Keen’s, Lawry’s, OLD BAY, and Thai Kitchen. For menu ideas, trend insights, and more information visit www.clubhouseforchefs.ca or follow Club House for Chefs on Facebook and Instagram.
Club House for Chefs is a part of McCormick Canada’s Flavour Solutions division with a focus on the food service industry. McCormick Canada is the Canadian business unit of McCormick & Company. As a global leader in flavour, McCormick has built a portfolio of leading flavour brands that enhance people’s enjoyment of food all around the world. Every day, no matter where or what you eat, you can enjoy food flavoured by McCormick.
About Pillar Nonprofit Network
Pillar Nonprofit Network strengthens individuals, organizations and enterprises invested in positive community impact. As a regional umbrella organization, we support 600 charities, nonprofits, for-profit and nonprofit social enterprises, social innovators, and social financiers by sharing resources, exchanging knowledge, and creating meaningful connections across the three pillars of nonprofit, business, and government. We believe that a connected network sparks collaboration and helps to build an engaged, inclusive, and vibrant community. Learn more at pillarnonprofit.ca
About the Middlesex London Food Policy Council:
The Middlesex London Food Policy Council envisions a robust and thriving local food system that sustains and nourishes all residents while being socially, economically, and environmentally sustainable. It is a forum for stakeholders and residents to discuss local food issues, empowering them to become involved in food system decisions. Learn more at www.mlfpc.ca
About rTraction
rTraction is a digital agency located at the Roundhouse in downtown London. We help companies and nonprofits to connect to their community using digital tools. As a Certified B Corporation, part of our mandate is using business as a force for good. We are excited to support this initiative as part of our mandate to support local businesses. Learn more at www.rtraction.com
About the Western Fair District
The Western Fair District (WFD) is a multi-faceted, not for profit, Agricultural Society, based in the heart of London, Ontario. WFD is a member driven organization supported by an extensive group of volunteers and staff. Through its programming and facilities, it is a leading year-round agriculture, entertainment, commercial, sports and recreation destination for residents of the city of London and far beyond, anchored by its signature event, the annual Western Fair. Learn more at www.westernfairdistrict.com
