Coachella Valley restaurants raised $230,000 for Desert AIDS Project
More than 60 Coachella Valley restaurants raised a combined $230,000 during April’s Dining Out for Life fundraiser, which will go towards client services and programs at Desert AIDS Project, organizers announced today.
The annual event was held April 27 in more than 50 cities across the nation. Donations in the Coachella Valley were the third highest in nation.
Read: Restaurants changing dining bills to profits for Desert Aids Project
Fundraising was largest at three Palm Springs restaurants: Lulu California Bistro, Spencer’s Restaurant and Trio, which raised a combined $55,399, according to Desert AIDS Project.
In addition, five other local restaurants — Townie Bagels, 533 Viet Fusion, The Barn Kitchen at Sparrows Lodge, Ristretto for Coffee Lovers and Rooster and the Pig — donated 100 percent of their proceeds to the Desert AIDS Project.
Read: Locals come together for Dining Out for Life fundraiser
The wait staff at Rooster and the Pig also donated their tips, according to DAP. Participating restaurants donated at least 33 percent of their food, beverage and liquor gross sales to support the nonprofit organization, who thanked the valley media outlets for generating interest in the fundraising campaign.
“We really can’t underestimate the impact local media coverage had on increasing funds raised this year,” said Darrell Tucci, Desert AIDS Project’s chief development officer.
“Watching a live broadcast reminded the entire valley to `Make One Meal Matter,’ and it did.”
An estimated 10,000 customers ate at Valley restaurants throughout the day.
