Fare Share Friday

We had the good fortune to serve at a wonderful event yesterday.  The event was a sit down, plated multi-course dining experience.  The cuisine was specially prepared in the kitchens of the Waldorf-Astoria and the Palace, with assistance from the Four Seasons.  The venue was one of the iconic New York landmarks that hosts many special events.  The guests were several hundred New Yorkers who are homeless, plus many other guests.  The event was Fare Share Friday.

The story goes like this.  More than a year ago, a community activist asked a group of homeless New Yorkers what other services might benefit the homeless.  Among the answers was a comment that it would be nice to get a good meal following Thanksgiving Day.  The consensus was it was easy to get a good meal on Thanksgiving.  On the Thursday of Thanksgiving, many caring organizations and individuals would serve a nice Thanksgiving dinner.  Not so, the day after.  Fair Share Friday was born.     

In our experience, many New Yorkers are can-do, caring  people.  First, a grass roots organization of local residents took ownership of the event.  Next, two local hotels eagerly agreed to share their talent and cuisine.  Finally, a top-shelf international advertising agency pitched in with branding the event.  The result was the first Fare Share Friday in 2014. 

The second annual event occurred yesterday.  We served as greeters and table escorts, welcoming all of the guests.  We took some photos to share.

The event was hosted at St. Bart's church on Park Avenue.  Many secular events are hosted there.  With the pews removed, the space is uplifting and warm. 

One of two overflowing dessert tables awaiting the guests

A table ready to receive guests

Greg and Susan after the event

P.S.  Greg especially liked the name of the Fare Share Friday event because it is very similar to a product his former company once offered--Fair Share Plus.  He took the similarity as a sign that we must participate.  We are glad that we did.