Relief fund seeks donations for Iowa’s hospitality workers

The Iowa Restaurant Association, through its 501(c)3 charitable foundation, has announced the creation of an industry relief fund to assist hospitality workers displaced by the recent suspension of on-premise dining in Iowa restaurants and bars.

“Restaurants are cornerstones of their communities, and the employees are what make them shine. Thousands of these hospitality professionals are facing the devastating reality of sudden and unexpected unemployment,” said Jessica Dunker, President and CEO of the Iowa Restaurant Association. “People from across the state have asked how they can help, so we’ve created a designated fund within our existing non-profit foundation to direct 100% of the charitable dollars collected to provide relief for displaced Iowa hospitality employees.”

According to a study conducted by the Iowa Restaurant Association, 82% of restaurants and bars in Iowa have already laid off employees due to the on-premise shutdown put in place on March 17. The Association projects that tens of thousands of Iowa hospitality industry workers will be impacted by the layoffs.

100% of all donations will be distributed to displaced restaurant workers across the state. Any size contribution is welcomed, and a tax-deductible donation letter will be provided for all donations. Details for applying to receive funds will be shared in the coming week as donations are collected. Those wishing to support restaurant workers and donate to the relief fund can go to restaurantiowa.com.