Wednesday, April 1, from 3 - 6 p.m., Taco Sisters Restaurant will be cooking and donating plate lunches to some of those affected by rampant unemployment caused by policies adapted to quell the pandemic spread of the novel coronavirus, COVID-19.
Brett Hall, of Taco Sisters, expressed a desire to aid those in the community the best way they know how — by making it “all about the food,” and serving their homemade specialties with premium ingredients to members of the community. Taco Sisters’ food donation will be made possible by its partnership with non-profit organization, Love of People, through donations made to its initiative, “The Lending Closet,” and will be distributed to members of the Upper Lafayette community.
“ULEDF [Upper Lafayette Economic Development Foundation] is an organization that believes in supporting our local businesses,” said ULEDF Executive Director, Johnathan Williams. “We are highlighting local businesses that are committed to making a direct impact on people who live in our underserved communities, including musicians, artists and service industry workers.”
The Lending Closet has operated through the Blue Monday Mission to serve and supply creatives with goods and services, and both will partner with Taco Sisters. Although Taco Sisters is not a member-business of ULEDF, the business began in Downtown Lafayette. It has also partnered with Love of People for three years in providing more than 500 turkey meals for its “Community Thanksgiving” event held at The Jefferson Street Pub, and sponsored by the Rotary Club of Lafayette.
In response to the slowdown caused by the pandemic, ULEDF will provide non-member businesses with resources, platforms and infrastructure to show their commitment to our community. Taco Sisters has stepped up to the plate for Acadiana, but there are many ways to become involved and no way or impact too small. ULEDF will coordinate with businesses to ensure their contributions have an immediate impact and effect on the community.
Taco Sisters website boasts their tacos as “the most delicious tacos you’ve ever had.” They are made with fresh gulf fish, smoked gulf shrimp or savory meats and poultry — all of which are never frozen. It also serves brisket burritos, veggie tacos and salads made with fresh ingredients and “lots of love.”
It’s that love that inspired them to collaborate once again with the Blue Monday Mission’s Community Meals program to feed members of the community. Donations from local businesses have secured more than 50 meals, but any additional donations will be routed directly toward preparing and giving away more food. Williams said he believes this consistent, continual communal effort helps to fulfill Love of People’s mission of “helping others help others.”
“We would like to thank Taco Sisters,” Williams said, “and all of our community partners, for your dedication to this community. We, in turn, support you.”
Contact Melissa@loveofpeople.org or Shon@loveofpeople.org, or send a message at https://www.facebook.com/loveofpeopleLOP/ to sign up to receive meals or donate to The Lending Closet.