Olio in Stamford Hosts Fundraiser for Local Hero James Lacerenza

James Lacerenza is the kind of person who never thinks about himself or his own happiness.  Instead, he’s always working hard, giving his time, energy, and heart into organizations that mean so much to him.  We’ve talked about James and his passions in the past, namely his fight to help those with muscular dystrophy.  In truth, he has raised more money than any of us will probably ever raise in our lives.  We’re talking over $135,000, yet that number climbs every year and with every event.

But, here’s the thing about James.  Because he cares so much about others and raising money, he doesn’t think about himself or his own needs.  We can understand his reluctance to reach out to others and to ask for help when he knows there are so many in the world that need help, love, and support, but we think it’s time to do more for him.  That’s why Olio has teamed up with Backyard Humanitarian to create a special fundraiser this coming Thursday.  All you need to do is stop by Olio in Stamford on 10/24 (we recommend you call (203) 817-0303 for reservations first) and eat up.  Steve and Moira will donate 20% of all sales and the staff has generously agreed to donate all of their tips.

Give Back: Meals and Music at the Soup Kitchen through Backyard Humanitarian

Some happy chefs serving up some salad, photo from http://backyardhumanitarian.org

Here are some startling facts according to FeedingAmerica.org:

• In 2011, 50.1 million Americans lived in food insecure households, 33.5 million adults and 16.7 million children.
• In 2011, 14.9 percent of households (17.9 million households) were food insecure.
• In 2011, 5.7 percent of households (6.8 million households) experienced very low food security.
• In 2011, households with children reported food insecurity at a significantly higher rate than those without children, 20.6 percent compared to 12.2 percent.
• In 2011, households that had higher rates of food insecurity than the national average included households with children (20.6 percent), especially households with children headed by single women (36.8 percent) or single men (24.9 percent), Black non-Hispanic households (25.1 percent) and Hispanic households (26.2 percent).
• In 2011, 8.8 percent of seniors living alone (1 million households) were food insecure.
• Food insecurity exists in every county in America, ranging from a low of 5 percent in Steele County, ND to a high of 37 percent in Holmes County, MS.
  

The band plays on at the soup kitchen, photo from http://www.backyardhumanitarian.org

Yes, those statistics are definitely amazing and Fairfield County isn’t immune from food insecurity, either.  But, as you know, there are lots of people out there who are helping to feed and take care of others.  We’ve talked to you about the great work of Community Plates and we’ve talked about fundraisers for New Covenant House of Hospitality in Stamford, but we’re presenting you now with some solid, tangible ways to get out there and help out.

Olio in Stamford to Host Backyard Humanitarian Fundraiser

Pork shoulder with guac, onion salad, atop platanos at Olio on Hope Street, Stamford

When we broke the news about Olio last year, we were excited at the chance of a great new restaurant, but we were pleasantly surprised to see that it was more than great.  In fact, the food that Chef Steve Costanzo is pumping out is pretty darn awesome.  Service has always been excellent, especially with co-owner Moira Hyland overseeing the dining room.

We’re letting you know that Steve and Moira have teamed up with Backyard Humanitarian for a special night of dining.  All you need to do is stop by Olio on 2/7 from 5:30-10 pm and 20% of all sales will be donated to Backyard Humanitarian.  If you’re not familiar with BH, check out this description from their site:

Backyard Humanitarian is a grassroots all volunteer group that provides humanitarian services to those in need in our community and volunteer opportunities for those who want to make a difference for others right here, right now. Though there may not be daily news reports about the people in our community, there are many who are suffering and need our help. We can make a difference.  Backyard Humanitarians help people, animals and the earth.

Spots for this fundraiser are disappearing quickly, so you’ll want to call up and make a reservation by calling (203) 817-0303.  In the meantime, check out more about Olio, our dining experience, and their FB page for mouth-watering daily specials.

Olio

Noms: 4

Cost: $$$

Address:  934 Hope Street

                  Stamford, CT 06905

Phone:  (203) 817-0303

Fax:  (203) 817-0305