TikTok Donates $4M to Support Restaurant Workers During the Coronavirus Pandemic

The NRAEF RERF supports U.S. restaurant workers who have been financially impacted by the Covid-19 crisis, and industry legend Guy Fieri led a nationwide fundraising drive for it via a Restaurant Relief America campaign.

And the James Beard Foundation Food and Beverage Industry Relief Fund provides financial assistance to small independent restaurants with immediate needs for funds to pay operating expenses and remain in business.

TikTok said in a blog post, “Restaurants, bars, bakeries and coffee shops are essential to the fabric of the neighborhoods they serve, and the people behind the counters and in the kitchens are what make the restaurant industry one of the most vibrant communities on TikTok. From the moment a friendly restaurant host greets you to the impeccable dining experience a waiter provides, the beautiful meal crafted by the chef and the dishwashers and bussers that help reset tables for hungry guests, it truly takes a village to keep the restaurant industry running like a well-oiled machine.”

NRAEF president Rob Gifford added, “We are thrilled and inspired by TikTok’s commitment to help restaurant employees throughout the industry and across the country impacted by the Covid-19 crisis. Thanks to its substantial donation, we will have the ability to help thousands of people who are out of work and facing financial hardship.”

And James Beard Foundation chief operating officer Kris Moon said, “We are incredibly grateful for TikTok’s generous donation and support during this challenging time. With this donation, we will continue to provide the financial relief necessary to prevent the closure of independent food and beverage businesses, some of which wouldn’t be possible without donations of this magnitude.”