The Buffalo Bills are helping to make powerful connections in our community over dinner. This Black History Month, they supported black owned restaurants and domestic violence survivors at Haven House at the same time. The Buffalo Bills donated 45 dinners to Haven House. These meals were purchased from Brothers Takeout Café & Catering as a part of Black Restaurant Week (February 13-21). The meal left everybody smiling.
“Everyone at the dinner had such a great time,” said Haven House Community Relations Coordinator Lauren Gorlick. “To have the Bills send meals to them, letting them know that the organization was thinking of them, meant a lot to the clients at Haven House. It made them feel seen. On top of that, they loved the food. The salmon in particular was popular – it was gone very quickly!”
Participating in Black Restaurant Week was special to both Haven House and the Buffalo Bills, particularly during Black History Month. Organized by the Buffalo Urban League Young Professionals, Black Restaurant Week aimed to educate and bring awareness to WNY of minority-based cuisine, to stimulate economic growth in Black neighborhoods, and to create experiences that cater to a diverse group of people.
The Bills are also a part of the NFL’s Inspire Change campaign, which aims at reducing barriers to opportunity due to race or socio-economic conditions. Britani Johnson, Community Relations Coordinator for the Buffalo Bills, said that the Bills take great pride in helping this cause.
“Black businesses and entrepreneurs have been some of the greatest contributors to the innovative, economic and cultural vibrancy of America,” Britani explained. “However, dating back to the beginning of our country, discriminatory policies and social practices have forced Black businesses to compete on an uneven playing field, which has contributed to the disparities we see today – so the Bills wanted to Inspire Change by purchasing meals and donating them to shelters in Western New York.”
Following a wildly successful season that saw the team reach the AFC Championship game, the spotlight in Buffalo is firmly focused on the Bills. Britani said that the organization knows its role as leaders in the WNY region. “For fans, I think it is refreshing to see that – yes, it is about football – but it is about the community, as well,” said Britani. “The Bills want [WNY] to know that we appreciate the fans’ support and we want to do the same in return for you. I think supporting local organizations, businesses, and non-profits is important to everyone in the organization.”
Thank you again to the Buffalo Bills!