HOUSTON – As the heartbreak continues for the lives lost during the devastating floods in the Texas Hill Country, dozens have come together to lend a helping hand, including Eat Like a Local’s own, Chris Shepherd.
The James Beard Award-winning chef is also behind the nonprofit Southern Smoke Foundation. It launched in 2015 and assists food and beverage workers through various means, including helping cover essential costs, addressing mental health, and extending aid to families.
With the catastrophic Fourth of July floods, the Southern Smoke Foundation is working once again to help those in the food and beverage industry through the Hill Country Relief Fund. According to their website, they have committed $150,000 to support food & beverage workers and are prepared to do more, with $15,000 donation matched by Sysco.
Shepherd and the Southern Smoke Foundation recently raised more than $1.5 million for victims of Hurricane Milton and Helene.
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The application will officially open on August 15. However, Food and Beverage workers may apply now for urgent needs like medical or funeral expenses, though, through their existing relief fund by clicking here.
“Whether there are unforeseen hardships or mental health needs, our funds and resources help those who put food on the table,” the nonprofit’s welcome page said. “No ask is too big or too small.”
Learn more about the Southern Smoke Foundation by visiting their website.