Local Restaurant Rock Elm Tavern Gives Back Despite Facing Challenges
Temporarily shuttered restaurants are now relying on curbside takeouts more than ever. Despite only making a small percentage of their usual profit, local restaurants are still finding ways to give back to the community.
Rock Elm Tavern in Plymouth and Maple Grove have partnered with Treehouse to lend a hand to the needy.
Treehouse is an organization that helps at-risk youth in the suburbs.
Rock Elm Owner Troy Reding said they were able to feed nearly 40 families last week.
“We’re working on trying to raise money for the products. We take care of getting products, bagging it, making the meals and sending it out,” explained Reding.
Once a week, the restaurant will prepare a hot family style meal to deliver to homes. Treehouse will organize volunteers and coordinate deliveries.
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Reding told CCX they’re trying their best to give back, however they’re faced with uncertainties due to the COVID-19 crisis.
“It’s extremely challenging to do what we’re doing,” Reding said. “If you have McDonalds or any quick casual place that has drive-thru, they’re used to doing this. For us, it’s complete revamping of how we go about doing business.”
Last week, the restaurant only made about 15% of their normal sales, as an organization.
Reding grievously had to lay off more than 100 workers because of the state’s order to close restaurants. He was able to bring back 14 of those workers for curbside takeout.
Reding encourages neighbors to support local businesses during this time.
“I think what you’ll see is, the longer this goes on, the less restaurants will reopen,” Reding said.
Rock Elm Tavern is currently open daily from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. for curbside takeout.
If you’re interested in donating to help Rock Elm and Treehouse feed families please email troy@rockelmtavern.com.
