Restaurant Employee Relief Fund established to offer financial support for industry workers
Workers impacted by COVID-19 have opportunities to receive one-time $500 grant from the NRAEF
The global health pandemic has drastically impacted the restaurant industry with an estimated 8 million jobs lost as of April, according to the National Restaurant Association. As we navigate the unknown road ahead alongside our customers and partners, PepsiCo is seeking ways to support those impacted most.
That’s why we collaborated with the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) and other industry leaders in March to create a Restaurant Employee Relief Fund (RERF) for U.S. restaurant workers financially impacted by the COVID-19 crisis.
As a founding partner of RERF, PepsiCo contributed $1 million to provide immediate relief. 100% of the funds from the RERF will provide grants to workers who experienced a decrease in wages or loss of employment as a result of the pandemic.
Here’s what you need to know:
- More than 60,000 restaurant workers have registered to apply for a $500 RERF grant. When the NRAEF opened the Fund’s website, it received applications at the rate of more than 40 per second – a clear sign of just how hard restaurant workers have been hit by this crisis. It is currently reviewing and processing applications already in the system before accepting new applications.
- Each approved one-time grant is $500, limit one per person
- Grants will be awarded on a first-come, first-serve basis to those who meet the prescribed eligibility criteria, as outlined by NRAEF at www.rerf.us
Because the need is so vast, PepsiCo and The PepsiCo Foundation committed to raising an additional $3 million for the RERF In late April. The announcement came during the latest episode of “Some Good News,” John Krasinski’s’ digital news show dedicated to sharing positive stories from around the world. The fifth episode celebrated restaurant industry workers, many who have stepped up to keep their communities fed during the crisis even while facing hardships of their own. Krasinski also hosted a virtual potluck with fans and celebrity chefs including Guy Fieri, who surprised him with the news of PepsiCo’s commitment.
Our industry is stronger when we come together. We encourage people to donate to the RERF at https://rerf.us/make-a-donation/. Stay safe, stay well, and stay strong.
