Local Teen To Hold San Ramon Fundraiser For Food Workers

SAN RAMON VALLEY, CA — As food businesses across the Tri-Valley and nation were hit hard by the consequences of the coronavirus pandemic, a Monte Vista High School student with a soft spot for restaurants saw an opportunity to rise to the challenge.

"I got to know many restaurant workers personally and loved the atmosphere and food that they provided," Ronit Batra said in an email to Patch. "With deep respect for their work, it was devastating to see so many get laid off as a result of the pandemic."

He founded nonprofit Help SOAR (Save Our American Restaurant Workers) last summer, he's served more than 160 workers in 17 states with the help of teammates in branches based in Chicago and New York, according to the organization's website. Help SOAR seeks to place restaurant workers in new jobs, assist them in opening home kitchens and provide relief, among other things.

Help SOAR is organizing an Oct. 16 fundraiser from 4 to 8 p.m. at San Ramon's Panera Bread at 3121 Crow Canyon Pl.

"Our team is hardworking and dedicated, focused on a mission of helping as many people as possible and broadening our impact," he said.

The team of high school and college students has partnered with other organizations to distribute cash assistance, held fundraisers in San Ramon Valley, and published research and articles on the pandemic's impact on the food industry.

Help SOAR made space on its website to feature the voices of struggling restaurant workers who shared stories of maxing out credit cards, facing bankruptcy, struggling to pay rent or care for family and enduring heartbreak. Batra and his team have conducted interviews to learn more about their experience as businesses continue to reopen.

Want to learn more about Batra's work? Check out Help SOAR online, apply for help, apply to volunteer or donate.