Generous readers help support local restaurants and honor those working on the front lines of COVID-19 as part of the Delaware Delivers for Heroes program.
Back in April, as the state fell under stay-at-home orders and restaurants were forced to close sit-down dining, Delaware Today and Delaware Business Times created Delaware Delivers for Heroes, a program designed to help support our state’s restaurant community while acknowledging those who have worked tirelessly to care for Delawareans during the COVID-19 pandemic.
We invited our readers to make donations to the program and nominate groups they felt deserved recognition at DelawareDeliversForHeroes.com. A month later, the program had raised more than $4,000 from readers, and Delaware Delivers for Heroes was able to make its first gift card purchases and presentations to nominated groups.
Among the first gift card purchases were from Stone Balloon Ale House in Newark, part of High 5 Hospitality restaurant group. The gift cards were presented to the anesthesia technician team at ChristianaCare’s main campus in Newark.
“These technicians keep the operating room ready to be used at all times for surgeries needed to save the lives of both COVID and non-COVID patients,” reads the team’s nomination. “They are the thumbs of the OR.”
In addition, Delaware Delivers for Heroes purchased gift cards from Platinum Dining Group, which owns Redfire Grill & Steakhouse, Capers & Lemons Italian Restaurant, Eclipse Bistro, and Taverna, which were presented to the Hockessin Fire Company.
“These people are on call 24/7, often showing up before law enforcement,” reads the nomination. “They are dedicated, professional and selfless.”
“With everything that’s happened this spring, one thing has shown through—Delaware cares,” says Michael Reath, publisher of Delaware Today and Delaware Business Times. “The community’s willingness to support Delaware Delivers for Heroes, along with many other fundraising efforts in the First State, has been amazing. It’s also been invaluable in helping our neighbors in crisis. We’re grateful for every donation and the support of our sponsors. Thank you all.”
Gift card purchases and contributions will continue until all contributions are exhausted. To contribute to Delaware Delivers for Heroes or nominate a group or individual for a gift card, visit delawaredeliversforheroes.com.
