In response to an attack by the Israel Defense Forces that resulted in the deaths of seven World Central Kitchen aid workers in Gaza, restaurants across the United States are joining forces to raise money for the humanitarian organization. In North and South Carolina, establishments are stepping up to support this cause by participating in fundraising efforts organized by Benevolent Spirits, a hospitality group based in Asheville.

Benevolent Spirits is coordinating fundraising activities to benefit World Central Kitchen by asking bars and restaurants to designate a special cocktail or non-alcoholic beverage for the cause. When customers order the selected drink, the establishment will donate $1 to WCK. For example, Chai Pani and Botiwalla have pledged to donate $1 for every mango lassi ordered at their various locations.

Participating restaurants in the Carolinas include a diverse range of establishments such as Chai Pani, Botiwalla, Cúrate, La Bodega, Ajja, Chubby Fish, the Montford Rooftop Bar, Soprana Rooftop Cucina, The Crunkleton, Twisted Laurel, Asheville Brewing Co., Posana, High Five Coffee, Seabird, Chestnut, and Corner Kitchen.

World Central Kitchen made history by becoming the first organization to successfully send aid to Gaza by ship. The Open Arms ship, carrying 200 tons of food, arrived in the area on March 15. Chef José Andrés founded World Central Kitchen in 2010 in response to a devastating earthquake in Haiti.

The fundraising efforts led by Benevolent Spirits will continue until May 12, and more restaurants are encouraged to sign up to support the cause. Together, these establishments are coming together to make a positive impact and help those in need.