“The ongoing conflict in Syria has triggered the worst humanitarian crisis in the world today. According to the United Nations, 12.2 million people inside Syria need urgent help, including 7.6 million who are internally displaced. It is estimated that well over 250,000 people have died in the conflict, with hundreds of thousands more wounded. More than 4 million Syrians have sought refuge in the neighbouring countries of Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, and Turkey.”- Foreign Affairs, Tradeand Development Canada
This post is illustrated with photos from a certain Toronto restaurant’s Instagram feed, read on to find out why…
Chicken & foie gras mousse
It has been pretty much impossible recently to log onto the internet, or turn on the t.v. or radio without being overwhelmed with images and stories coming out of Syria and the surrounding nations, and the plight of refugees as they make their way into Europe. The crisis has forced millions into abandoning their homes and all their possessions save what they can carry on their backs; family members have been separated, and heart-breaking images have been making headlines for too long, stirring up impassioned concern and debate and leaving many wondering how they can help.
There are of course numerous international organizations that you can donate too that are equipped to offer aid; The United Nations, Refugee Agency, Doctors Without Borders, Oxfam, Canadian Red Cross, World Vision Canada, Migrant Offshore Aid, and World Food Programme and the food assistance arm of the United Nations. These are just seven of the philanthropic organizations one can donate to.
Seared scallops with corn nepitella and pequillo peppers
Closer to home, Cava, one of Toronto’s best and most acclaimed restaurants is taking matters into its own hands and helping out in a big way.Tomorrow night, Tuesday, Sept 29 will be a very special service at Cava; they are donating 100% of their revenues to Oxfam Canada to directly support relief efforts. Further, Oxfam has coordinated its campaign with the newly formed Syria Emergency Relief Fund, an initiative that promises to match dollar for dollar every donation made by Canadians.
Escabeche of chanterelles with white beans and grilled bread
“The Fund will help meet the basic needs of conflict-affected people in the region, as well as in official development assistance-eligible transit countries for refugees. The Government’s contribution to this fund will provide assistance through international and Canadian humanitarian organizations and will meet humanitarian needs such as shelter, food, health and water, as well as protection and emergency education”- Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada
Cava’s head chef Doug Penfold
Cava is also supported in this in initiative by its generous wine suppliers, The Vine, Woodman Wines and Spirits, and 30.50 Imports We should point out that this is not a solicitation for money. As the gang at Cava says, “This is an invitation to come eat, drink, and be merry for a wonderful cause.”
So basically what this means is that if you go to Cava for a fabulous dinner (just have a gander at their menu!) tomorrow night, every penny you spend will be doubled and used to help. I don’t know about you, but Paella with Gulf shrimp, clams, calamari and fennel is sounding doubly delicious right about now.
For reservations call 416.979.9918.