Restaurateur Marissa Hermer has extended a helping hand by opening the kitchens at her establishments Chez Mia and Olivetta in West Hollywood to provide warm meals for families, firefighters, shelters, and hospital workers. The meals, which include bread, salad, and pasta, aim to offer comfort and sustenance during uncertain times.
In a heartfelt gesture, Hermer shared her motivation behind this initiative, emphasizing the importance of finding solace in familiar routines amidst chaos. “When you don’t know if your house is standing and if you don’t know where your kids are gonna go to school or you don’t know what you’re gonna do, lean into the things that you do know — and I know how to cook dinner,” she expressed. The decision to cook meals for a large number of people stemmed from her belief in the power of food to bring solace and nourishment during times of crisis.
Hermer’s efforts have already resulted in raising funds to provide meals for 250 families of four. This program, originally introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, allows individuals worldwide to contribute by texting “DINNER” to 707070, highlighting the global reach and impact of this compassionate endeavor.
Utilizing social media platforms like Instagram, Hermer has established channels for displaced families in Los Angeles to access free meals. Families in need can simply comment “family” for assistance, while others can nominate families requiring support by commenting “nominate family” and tagging the individuals. Drivers willing to pick up meals from the restaurants and deliver them to families in need can also participate by commenting “driver,” showcasing a community-driven approach to addressing food insecurity.
Recognizing the challenge in seeking help during challenging times, Hermer emphasized the importance of looking out for one another and facilitating assistance where needed. “Sometimes it’s hard to say, ‘By the way, I want food or I need a meal.’ We’re not programmed to ask for what we need,” she acknowledged. The nomination system allows for a more discreet and supportive means of identifying those in need and extending a helping hand.
The success of this program, which has provided sustenance to thousands of individuals during the pandemic, hinges on the dedication of volunteers who generously offer their time to deliver meals to those facing adversity. Hermer emphasized the profound sense of community that emerged during the pandemic, transcending physical boundaries and fostering connections based on empathy and solidarity.
Despite facing personal challenges, including the loss of her children’s school and uncertainty regarding her own home, Hermer remains steadfast in her commitment to giving back to the community. Resilient in the face of adversity, she reflected on the shared experiences of devastation and loss, recognizing the universal impact of the recent events. “The devastation is enormous and not singular to me. It is shared by the masses and probably the world at this point,” she acknowledged. Yet, amidst the despair, she finds hope in unity and collective action, rallying individuals to come together and support one another through challenging times.
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