The Garces Foundation’s 2019 Think Local / Give Local Benefit

One of the biggest names in food and philanthropy, Chef Jose Garces, hosted his seventh annual Think Local/Give Local Benefit on Friday, March 29th, 2019 at the Loews Philadelphia Hotel. The Garces foundation is known for doing amazing work in the community, as well as creating culinary experiences food lovers don’t ever forget. This was no exception.

Chef Jose Garces and some of Philadelphia’s best chefs delivered an unforgettable gastronomic experience highlighting Philadelphia’s vibrant culinary scene. To further the Think Local / Give Local theme, guests enjoyed everything with a local twist – cocktails with local spirits, regional handcrafted beer, and even the design and décor was locally produced.

Proceeds from the tastings and silent auction went toward the Garces Foundation, which was founded in 2012 to provide access to health and educational services to the city’s immigrant community, particularly hospitality-industry employees, and their families.

The restaurant industry is the 5th largest employer of Latinos in Philadelphia, according to the Restaurant Opportunities Center (ROC) of Philadelphia. Additionally, 25% of restaurant workers in Philadelphia are Hispanic. As a result, there are unique needs both the industry and Hispanic restaurant workers face. The Garces Foundation helps close this gap by running an English language and skills program to support the unique needs of this community.