News

13,000 restaurants in Dine for America hurricane relief event

September 27, 2005

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The National Restaurant Association said 13,000 restaurants have signed on to participate in Dine for America, a nationwide and industry-wide fund-raising effort for victims of hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

According to a news release, the event will occur on Oct. 5, and all proceeds donated will go to the American Red Cross.

The NRA has coordinated efforts with Evite, an e-mail invitation service, to provide an easy way for consumers to invite family and friends to join the effort.

"Restaurants are often among the first to serve those in need, and never has it been more evident than in the wake of the Gulf Coast hurricanes," said Steven C. Anderson, president and chief executive officer of the NRA. "The overwhelming response from restaurants nationwide underscores their dedication to this worthy cause."

Evite is a free social-planning Web site featuring invitations, social networking, local information and event listings. From planning a dinner party for friends to finding something to do on Saturday night, Evite makes it easy to explore local areas, communicate, coordinate, and make decisions. The Evite electronic invitation to Dine for America is available evite.com.

Dine for America was created after Sept. 11, 2001, when 8,000 restaurants united to raise nearly $20 million for victims of that year's terror attacks.

Restaurants hoping to sign up for this year's event may still do so. Restaurant owners and operators are encouraged to host a Dine for America event and donate all or a portion of the day's sales/profits. Restaurant employees can participate by volunteering to work on Oct. 5, and/or donating a portion of their tips.