Ayat: Community Dinners for Clean Water
NYC Restaurants and Bars Raising Funds for Gaza As the humanitarian crisis in Gaza deepens, several New York City restaurants, bars, and small businesses are stepping up to provide support. Through fundraising events, community dinners, and special campaigns, these establishments are donating proceeds to organizations delivering food and aid to those in need. Here’s a look at the local businesses making a difference and how you can support their efforts.
Ayat, a beloved Palestinian restaurant with locations in Bay Ridge, Ditmas Park, and Bushwick, has become a hub for fundraising efforts. The restaurant regularly organizes community dinners and special events where proceeds go directly to aid in Palestine. In July alone, a series of gatherings at Ayat raised over $25,000 to fund clean water initiatives in Gaza. Their approach brings the community together over traditional Palestinian meals while making a tangible impact.
Ginger’s Bar: Craft Fairs Supporting Families
For more than 30 years, Ginger’s Bar in Park Slope has served as a safe and inclusive space. This August, the bar is hosting a special afternoon fundraiser featuring crafts from local artisans, with all proceeds going to support families in Gaza and the West Bank. The event highlights the power of community and creativity in the face of humanitarian need.
King of Falafel and Shawarma: Raffle for Relief
Known for its quick-service Palestinian fare, King of Falafel and Shawarma in Astoria is participating in the Queens Collective’s Raffle for Gaza. The restaurant is contributing their signature falafel mix and Palestinian olive oil as prizes. Raffle tickets are $10, and all funds raised through August 3 will be distributed to families and farmers impacted by the crisis. This initiative connects loyal customers with direct aid efforts.
Mythily: Pop-Up with a Purpose
Chef Rasika Venkatesa’s pop-up, Mythily, at Baba on Withers in Williamsburg, is dedicating 70% of its food sales on August 6 and 7 to World Central Kitchen. The proceeds will support on-the-ground food aid in Gaza. Venkatesa explains, “The privilege of preparing and sharing food is not universal. In Gaza, that privilege has been stripped away, and we refuse to stand by while communities suffer.”
Hive Mind Bookstore: Books and Beverages for Aid
Bushwick’s Hive Mind Bookstore, a queer and trans-owned bookstore and café, donates a portion of its sales to the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund. Recently, Hive Mind contributed $1,000 from the sale of books, beverages, and snacks to help provide clean water in Gaza. The bookstore emphasizes that sharing resources for the common good is a foundational value.
Saint Street Cakes: Baking for a Cause
New to Fort Greene, Saint Street Cakes incorporates philanthropy into its business model by making monthly donations to organizations like World Central Kitchen. In July, part of the bakery’s proceeds supported meal distribution efforts in Gaza. Owner Morgan Knight reflects, “We know food can be a source of joy—or a tool of oppression. Our mission is to nourish, not harm.”
How You Can Help
Supporting these businesses is an easy way for New Yorkers to contribute to humanitarian relief in Gaza. Whether by attending a fundraising event, buying a raffle ticket, or simply picking up a coffee or dessert, every small action adds up. As these establishments demonstrate, food and community can be powerful forces for good in a time of crisis.
