A charitable movement that’s raised more than $12 million worldwide is planting roots in Greater Victoria.
StreetSmart is a simple concept: for the next two months, participating restaurants ask patrons if they’re interested in donating $1 to a local food bank. At the end of the campaign, the charities that serve the community’s most needy get a big financial boost just as the Christmas season is wrapping up.
“Thanks to generous local donors, 100 per cent of the proceeds will go to local charities,” said Karen Clarke, StreetSmart Victoria organizer.
There are already eight restaurants onboard locally including Sooke Harbour House, 10 Acres, Ça Va, Cafe Brio, Milestone’s, Pescatores, Cheryl’s Gourmet Pantry, Relish and The Marina Restaurant in Oak Bay.
The Mustard Seed Food Bank and Sooke food bank will receive all the collected donations, while administrative and marketing costs for StreetSmart have been covered by generous individuals, law firms and local businesses, Clarke said.
“Victoria is a perfect place to do this, because we have so many wonderful restaurants,” she said. “Simply add a dollar to the end of your bill. It doesn’t affect server gratuities and it doesn’t cost the restaurant anything. The feedback we’ve had from Vancouver is the restaurants loved being a part of it, the servers feel they’re contributing to the community and the local connection is a big factor for a lot of people.”
Clark is still hoping more restaurants sign up as the campaign momentum builds.
Contact her at karenclarke@streetsmartcanada.org.
For an up-to-date list of participating restaurants, visit streetsmartcanada.org.