Support grows for #helpforhospo
A fund to support hospitality workers in need during the COVID outbreak is gaining momentum with online donations and an auction of well-known New Zealand wines among its fundraising activities.
#helpforhospo started when Red+White Cellar Managing Director, Blair Duncan, was moved to act after hearing stories from within the industry of people needing assistance as COVID forces the ongoing closure or reduced activities of hospitality businesses – particularly those people trying to support dependents.
He made an initial donation of $10,000, which has been matched by others and #helpforhospo was created as a means to distribute those funds. More than 300 hospitality workers in need have already received direct support by way of a minimum $100 payment.
A range of businesses have donated to the fund, including Astrolabe, Dog Point Vineyard, EuroVintage, Hallertau, Hellers, Lion, Mineral, Negociants and Pegasus Bay, among others.
Those in the industry can apply for financial assistance via the website at helpforhospo.co.nz.
Donations can be made as follows:
Individuals or small businesses – donate via the Givealittle page
Businesses wishing to make larger donations – email donate@helpforhospo.co.nz
Organisers say that #Helpforhospo will continue so long as funds are available.
Blair Duncan says there is no doubt the hospitality industry faces a challenging road ahead. “As businesses navigate the way forward, #helpforhospo is designed to support workers directly, providing a little immediate support to those who have had their income affected.
“We are touched by the generosity of those wishing to support others within the ‘hospo fam’ and pleased to be able to provide a means to do so. We hope it helps.”
The #helpforhospo wine auction is live until October 17 through online auction platform The Wine Auction Room at wineauctionroom.com.
Beyond financial donations, stock has been donated by New Zealand wineries keen to support the efforts. Labels include Amisfield, Aurum, Burn Cottage, Felton Road, Gibbston Valley, Greystone, Helio, High Garden, Lawson’s Dry Hills, Luna Estate, Maude Wines, Mt Difficulty, Muddy Water, Planet, Redmetal Estate, Spy Valley, Te Awanga and Valli.
