JBF Joins Dine Out Irene Fundraiser

by jbfauthor on September 07, 2011

While New York City was largely spared from Hurricane Irene's wrath, upstate New York didn't fare so well, with many of the region's farms getting hammered with extensive flooding and damage to crops. During a recent walk through the Union Square farmers' market, which is only a few blocks away from our publications offices, we noticed that a few regular vendors were absent, and we later learned that they were still recovering from the storm's devastation. To lend these farmers a helping hand, dozens of the city's restaurants are contributing to Dine Out Irene, a fundraiser that will benefit New York-area farms impacted by Irene. Participating eateries will donate up to 10 percent of sales rung up on Sunday, September 25. Diners can see the growing list of restaurants here. The James Beard Foundation will give a percentage of the proceeds from that day's brunch featuring J.J. Kingery of Wild Eggs to the cause. If you're a chef or restaurateur who is interested in joining the effort, you can email dineoutirene@gmail.com. The Dine Out Irene website also has info about donating directly to affected farms.