Richmond Restaurant Week returns amid government shutdown hardships

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Richmond Restaurant Week kicked off its 24th year on Monday, offering local diners a chance to enjoy meal deals while supporting a greater cause -- something that organizers find even more important as the government shutdown continues.

"I love this week -- the energy is just electrifying," said Aline Reitzer, founder of Richmond Restaurant Week and co-owner of Acacia Midtown. "It's just so nice to see the support."

The semiannual event brings together 27 local restaurants, each offering a three-course meal at a fixed price of $35.25. For each meal sold, $5.25 goes to Feed More, a nonprofit focused on fighting hunger in Central Virginia.

"Richmond is a very charitable city," Reitzer said.

Beyond the deals and dining, organizers said the event serves a deeper purpose – one that's especially valuable this year, as the ongoing government shutdown continues to leave families struggling to make ends meet.

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"It’s a lot of these people -- people that have been working and getting by," said Christy Dalton, community engagement manager for Feed More. "But, now that you miss a paycheck, they can’t get by."

Dalton said the organization saw similar spikes in need during previous shutdowns, but this year, the impact may be even greater. Many families are approaching a full month without pay.

"There’s a lot going on right now, and we have been part of the community for a while, so we’ve seen this before," Dalton said.

This month alone, Dalton said Feed More has seen a 21% increase in people using its online agency locator, which connects people with resources when looking for food help. The nonprofit has also seen inquiries for food assistance on its website’s chatbot trending upward.

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Additionally, she said Feed More is preparing for an increased call volume to its help line in the next 30 to 60 days, as people without a paycheck who have food now may run out.

According to Dalton, that's why Richmond Restaurant Week is crucial, as the nonprofit relies heavily on donations.

"Restaurant Week is hitting at a great time, because it’s an additional way that people can reach out and support us," she said.

For Reitzer, she said the connection between food and community is deeply personal.

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"Working in restaurants, we feed people every day," Reitzer said, "And having an understanding and an appreciation for the less fortunate community that’s out there ... it just made sense to me to work together with the restaurants and support a nonprofit."

To see all participating locations, click here. For more information on Feed More, click here.