Fund provides critical relief for businesses devastated by pandemic’s harsh economic impacts
WASHINGTON – Leaders in the hospitality sector are calling on industry advocates across the country to participate in the #HelpHospitality Day of Action on February 24 to urge their members of Congress to provide additional funding for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF).
“The Restaurant Revitalization Fund provided critical relief to a wide range of hospitality businesses severely impacted by the pandemic including community restaurants and bars, and distilleries, breweries, wineries, cideries and meaderies with tasting rooms,” the coalition said. “The federal program was hugely successful, but the demand far exceeded the available funds.”
Research from the National Restaurant Association found that the RRF saved more than 900,000 jobs at restaurants that received grants. The funding was quickly depleted, however, leaving 177,000 eligible businesses without any financial support.
In addition, according to the Independent Restaurant Coalition, 80 percent of businesses that did not receive RRF reported they are in danger of permanent closure if Congress does not provide them with the relief they need.
Day of Action participants will be calling, tweeting and emailing their members of Congress to urge them to cosponsor the Continuing Emergency Support for Restaurants Act (S. 2675) and include the legislation in the upcoming government spending package. Click here for additional information.
“Without additional relief, many hospitality businesses may be forced to close their doors permanently,” the coalition said. “We can’t allow these businesses to shutter. From local farms to food suppliers, breweries, distilleries and beverage alcohol distributors, local restaurants support much-needed jobs in our communities and contribute to vibrant main streets across the country.”
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“Restaurants and other hospitality businesses continue to face significant financial challenges due to the lingering pandemic, rising food costs, supply chain disruptions and staff shortages,” said the coalition. “Replenishing the Restaurant Revitalization Fund will get funding to those businesses that are most in need.”
The sponsors of the daylong campaign include: the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States, National Restaurant Association, Independent Restaurant Coalition, the Council of State Restaurant Associations, Beer Institute, Brewers Association, American Craft Spirits Association, American Distilled Spirits Alliance, American Distilling Institute, Wine Institute, WineAmerica, American Cider Association, American Mead Makers Association, American Beverage Licensees, Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America, National Beer Wholesalers Association, Bar & Restaurant, TIPS|A 360training Company, Tales of the Cocktail Foundation and United States Bartenders’ Guild.
