Applicants swamp fund meant to help jobless NC hospitality workers

There’s a new fund in North Carolina that’s helping restaurant, bar and hotel workers who have lost their jobs because of the new coronavirus crisis.

However, due to an overwhelming response — 15,000 applicants within a week of opening March 25 — the relief fund is no longer accepting applications, organizers said.

The NC Restaurant Workers Relief Fund, set up last month by the Raleigh-based North Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association, is now accepting donations for the fund. Look for “Leave a tip” online at ncrestaurantrelief.com.

Out of work food servers, housekeepers and bartenders receive up to $500 based on their need, years worked in the hospitality industry and employer’s verification. On March 17, Gov, Roy Cooper ordered all restaurants to close dining rooms.

“We are actively fundraising to try to help as many folks as possible because the need is so great,” said Margo Metzger, association spokeswoman.

The foundation has raised almost $500,000 through corporate donors and individuals, including two $100,000 donations each from Brooks Bell and Coastal Credit Union Foundation.

As of April 8, 532 grant recipients had received $255,000. Payouts will continue until the fund is depleted.

“Every little bit helps,” Metzger said of donating.

North Carolina is on track to surpass 500,000 jobless claims by the end of this week, the (Raleigh) News & Observer reported Wednesday.

‘A devastating situation’

The association said more than 20,000 restaurant and lodging businesses employ 13% of the state’s workforce and generate more than $23.5 billion each year. Metzger said 95% of the restaurant and food service workers in North Carolina have been laid off.

“It’s just such a devastating situation,” she said.

The association, which for 10 years has focused on education and training for hospitality workers, pivoted last month to focus on relief.

“There are a lot of people facing an uncertain future, but a lot of people are in real crisis right now,” she said. “I’m still hopeful if we can get more, we can keep going down that list and helping more people.”