SPOKANE, Wash. — Uber announced they are giving $200 thousand to Spokane restaurants and drivers that were affected by the Spokane fires in August.
Through Uber’s Disaster Relief Fund for U.S. Merchants, 16 local restaurants on the Uber Eats platform have each been selected to receive $10,000 grants to help cover immediate recovery expenses from closures, evacuations, and reduced customer traffic. Eligible drivers whose earnings were impacted will receive $1,000 grants.
“Restaurants are at the heart of every community, and when disasters strike, they’re often among the small businesses hit hardest,” said Jean Martinou, Western General Manager for Uber Eats & Postmates. “We hope these grants provide restaurant owners and drivers with immediate support as they recover and rebuild.”
Two restaurant recipients shared how the assistance has helped their recovery. Byoung Ho Lee, owner of Kinja Japanese Restaurant, said: “This grant came at a very important time for our business. After the fires caused such a difficult period for us, the funding gave us hope and helped us cover essential expenses while we work to recover and keep our doors open.”
Brystol Myers of Caruso’s Sandwiches & Artisan Pizza added: “The financial assistance arrived at a meaningful time and provided much-needed support as we worked through challenges affecting our business.”
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