Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the past couple weeks, it would be nearly impossible to ignore the series of powerful earthquakes that have ravaged Haiti. As one of the poorest nations in the Western Hemisphere, the damage has been catastrophic. Though the government cites 72,000 casualties, more liberal estimates push the death toll closer to 200,000 and three million people—almost a third of the populous—lacks basic amenities, like fresh water and adequate food. Much like Sichuan in 2008, charitable giving will help NGOs augment government services and jumpstart the rebuilding effort. Making a donation to a well-established organization, like the Red Cross, is one way to make a difference, but there are several other, more enjoyable ways to do your part for Haiti.
On Jan 27th, perennial favorite Mosto, will be offering an opportunity to help earthquake victims by presenting a special five course wine-pairing for RMB600. Some of the menu highlights include: Danny’s famous seared foie gras with fennel puree, pickles, toasted brioche and a mango salad; the best risotto in the city served truffled with a Parmesan crisp; and one of my personal Mosto favorites, grilled beef tenderloin with Chorizo potatoes, rosemary sauce and wilted spinach for the main course. The wine pairing is sponsored by ASC, East Meets West, Summergate, Torres Wine and Wine Republic and all sales revenue will be donated to UNICEF’s aid program in Haiti. The team at Mosto is very passionate about the Haiti benifit, “The earthquake in Haiti is a huge catastrophe that has made a deep impression on us and we simply want to help the best way we can...UNICEF’s work truly makes a difference for children in need and we hope that our donation can contribute to their cause.” Well said.
The JUMP! Foundation, in collaboration with LumDimSum, is holding a multi-day fundraiser for the HAITI RISE Campaign, which aims to raise 200,000 RMB for relief and development work in Haiti. From Sunday, January 24 to Wednesday, February 3, buy a 200RMB voucher and eat at any HAITI RISE participating restaurant and each restaurant will donate 100RMB directly to the HAITI RISE Fund. Participating restaurants include:
Hatsune (Guanghua Lu and the Village locations)
Scarlett Wine Bar & Restaurant
The HAITI RISE campaign included an campaign launch event at The Bookworm on Friday, but there is still a chance to join in the closing party on Thursday, February 4, 9:30pm-1:00am at Hatsune in the Sanlitun Village. For more information on campaign or events, contact haitirise@jumpfoundation.org or kristen@lumdimsum.com.
If you are reading this article, you probably aren’t worrying about your next meal or where you’ll sleep tonight, but three million Haitians have had their world turned upside down and thousands more are searching for loved ones and trying to look for a better tomorrow. Your small act of kindness can make a difference, so don’t miss out on a opportunity to give a helping hand to your fellow man while dining at some of the city’s finest restaurants.
