USA | Grants have been awarded to Latino restaurants by the LRA to promote the sector and celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.
The Latino Restaurant Association (LRA) announced that 23 independently owned restaurants in the Central Valley will receive grants of USD $3,500 each, made possible by a USD $100,000 grant from Southern California Gas Co. (SoCalGas).
Since 2020, SoCalGas has supported the LRA with over $350,000 towards the organisation's promotion and support of Latino restaurateurs and small business owners.
"We are thrilled to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by awarding 23 grants to deserving restaurants in South Fresno, Kings and Tulare counties. This initiative not only supports our vibrant culinary community but also honours the rich cultural heritage that these establishments represent," said Lilly Rocha, CEO of the LRA.
"By empowering these restaurants, we are preserving and promoting the diverse flavours and traditions that make our culture so unique. We are proud to stand with these entrepreneurs and help them continue to share their passion and heritage through their delicious food."
The LRA has provided resources, advocacy, and networking opportunities to help Latino-owned restaurants succeed and grow.
"As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, I would like to acknowledge and thank the Latino Restaurant Association who, with the generous support of SoCalGas, will award grants to uplift and celebrate local businesses and honour our cultural heritage," said California State Sen. Anna Caballero (D-Merced).
"More than just financial support, these grants are a testament to the resilience, creativity and hard work of our Latino restaurateurs. By investing in small businesses, we are preserving the rich culinary traditions of our community, sharing them with others, and fostering economic growth and opportunity in the Central Valley."
Andy Carrasco, vice president of communications, local government and community affairs, SoCalGas, said the group recognised the vital role small restaurants play in the community, especially given the challenges they've faced in recent years.
"In collaboration with the Latino Restaurant Association, these grants will offer crucial support, enabling restaurants to invest in purchasing vital equipment, necessary dining gear, making technology upgrades, employee benefits, or other needs essential for the receiving restaurant's success and growth."
Grants will be given to seven restaurants in Fresno, four in Kings and 11 in Tulare counties. The grant application was announced in July of this year, and eligibility was open to restaurants with a focus on Latino heritage or who have made significant contributions to the Latino community.
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