NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — A new nonprofit is using donations to support both local restaurants and workers at area hospitals.
Feed The Front Line started up in response to the COVID-19 crisis and its impact on both those working in health care and in the restaurant industry.
The group goes to locally-owned restaurants, buys food for take out and takes it or has it delivered to hospitals. Wednesday was their first delivery. They took food from Vui’s Kitchen to St. Thomas Midtown Hospital.
"Basically, our goal is to make sure the health care professionals that are working so hard right now have the time and energy to focus on those who need it most and don’t have to worry about where their meals are coming from our when they’re going to take the time to get their food," said Meredith Lischer, a representative of Feed The Front Line.
Vui’s Kitchen in Germantown was hit by the March 3 tornado. It has some damage externally but is still able to operate. The CEO of the restaurant, Mollie Murphree, said this large 70 meal take out order is a big help for their business.
Plus, they’re happy to see the meals go to a good cause.
"This is the Nashville way. Nashville always comes together in times like these. So, this is what Nashville’s all about," said Murphree.
Nurses are thrilled to have donations of food sent to the hospital. Work is stressful in preparation of what could be a surge of new patients. They say not having to worry about meals makes their day much easier.
“It’s been super nice just being thought of by the community and just knowing they’re behind us and support us. It’s a small way just to encourage us and encourage our staff and know the community is supporting us,” said Ashley Prater, a nurse who works in the ER at St. Thomas Midtown Hospital.
Feed The Front Line relies on donations to operate. Their website has more information on how people can become involved.
