Marcus Lemonis, best known for his long-running hit show CNBC’s “The Profit”, and a new show, “Streets of Dreams with Marcus Lemonis,” has challenged Americans to give back to their local restaurants and help those who are food insecure throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Lemonis launched the “Plating Change” program through the Lemon-Aid Foundation with a $1M donation to help support local restaurants and communities.
In December 2020, during an Instagram Live Plating Change session catered to giving away $100,000 to small businesses, Lemonis assisted Qui’s Café in Richmond, VA with a $20,000 order to feed community members in need. During the live chat, the restaurant mentioned how the downturned economy fueled by the Coronavirus pandemic has caused them to lose revenue and struggle to keep their doors open. With the funds Lemonis gave for the large catering order, Qui’s Café will be partnering with local organizations in the community to fulfill this order, including:
Celebration Church & Outreach Pantry
Journey House Foundation
Celebration Rehabilitation Center
City of Richmond Care Coordination Department
Chippenham Hospital Emergency Room Department
“My goal is to keep Main Street USA alive and well during the economic troubles that COVID-19 has brought to our small business owners,” said Lemonis. “I also want to thank the restaurants and staff that have unselfishly supported this initiative to feed our most vulnerable community members.”
In October 2020, Lemonis established the Lemon-AID Foundation with a $50 million pledge aimed at providing greater opportunities for small businesses and underserved communities. Since the inception, close to $2 million dollars has been deployed.
Additionally, by going to wck.org/platingchange, people across the country can donate to World Central Kitchen in support of the program, whether it’s a single meal (value of $10) or more.
