Share this Post
The Independent Restaurant Coalition bolsters disaster relief efforts across the state.
After Hurricane Helene devastated Western North Carolina, countless restaurants and bars were destroyed or forced to close indefinitely. And, yet, many still stepped up to feed neighbors who had lost everything. Restaurateurs and purveyors organized food trucks, while kitchens with available capacity packaged and delivered meals across more than 600 miles of damage. These businesses worked tirelessly to support their communities—but who was there to help them in return?
Enter the Independent Restaurant Coalition. Founded in March 2020 amid the COVID pandemic, the coalition was created to give independent restaurants and bars a collective voice—plus helped secure the $28.6 billion Restaurant Revitalization Fund, a lifeline that kept thousands of businesses afloat and their workers employed.
Now, the IRC is once again mobilizing to aid restaurants struggling after natural disasters like Helene. In partnership with Chase, the coalition is launching two grant programs: the IRC and Chase Disaster Relief Fund, and the IRC and Chase Innovator Awards. Together, these initiatives will distribute $4 million this year, aiming to deliver financial aid quickly to independent restaurants when they need it most.
“There is very little government relief for small businesses when a natural disaster devastates a community,” says Cheetie Kumar, chef-owner of Raleigh’s Ajja and IRC Board vice president. She also notes that most independent restaurants operate on razor-thin margins without cash reserves to weather extended closures.
To further support the vital role independent restaurants play in their communities, the coalition will honor those pioneering innovative, community-driven practices. Kumar points to programs that feed hungry children and adults, bolster urban farms, and advance fair labor models. “These innovators deserve not only financial support, but also recognition for their impactful work,” she emphasizes.
Outside of disaster relief efforts, the IRC continues to advocate for policies aimed at leveling the playing field for small businesses. This includes efforts to reduce credit card swipe fees; push for immigration reform to address labor shortages; and support the Restaurant Service Charge Tax Fairness Act, which seeks to reduce wage disparities between kitchen and front-of-house staff. The coalition is also working to make childcare more affordable for hospitality workers, lower exorbitant third-party delivery fees and combat fraudulent reservation practices.
“Independent restaurants are more than just a small business with a kitchen,” Kumar explains. “They are often anchored in a neighborhood or community”—and without them, “our collective culture would be quite bleak.” These vital spaces employ millions, support local farmers and host many of life’s most meaningful moments. With a $1 trillion impact on the economy, their survival is essential—and the IRC is committed to helping them weather all kinds of storms.
Related Articles
Share this Post