‘West Hartford Gives’ is a way to show thanks to Hartford HealthCare workers, while supporting local restaurants at the same time. [List of restaurants will continue to be updated.]

By Ronni Newton

West Hartford Gives, a “win-win” initiative that launches Dec. 15, will provide much-needed support to local restaurants and at the same time provide a special thanks to health care workers whose have been working tirelessly on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic for the past nine months.

“This initiative is a great way to support your favorite West Hartford restaurants by providing them with immediate cash flow as they experience growing challenges during the cold weather season,” said West Hartford Economic Development Coordinator Kristen Gorski.

“West Hartford Gives allows you to purchase gift cards to be used at your convenience or to give as gifts during the holiday season. In addition, the participating restaurants have agreed that 20% of the gift card purchase will be donated to frontline workers at Hartford Healthcare to give thanks for their dedication to our community over the course of the pandemic,” Gorski said.

For every $50 gift card purchased at participating restaurants between Dec. 15-31, a $10 gift card will be given to a Hartford Healthcare employee as thanks and to show appreciation for their above and beyond efforts.

Gorski said that she was recently contacted by West Hartford resident Sarah Ivins who was interested in doing something positive for the community. They brainstormed, and that led to West Hartford Gives.

The West Hartford Chamber of Commerce, which has continued to provide support to the business community throughout the pandemic, partnered with the town to assist with the effort as well.

“Hartford Healthcare is an anchor institution in West Hartford,” Gorski said. “They have the largest presence of any health care provider in our town and have chosen to continue making significant investments within our community, making them a great beneficiary.”

Participating restaurants to date include:

• Zohara Mediterranean Kitchen
• Àvert Brasserie
• Treva
• DORO Marketplace
• Joey’s Pizza Pie
• Effie’s Place Restaurant
• Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
• Nummy
• Harry’s Pizzeria & Tavern
• Milkcraft
• Cora Cora
• Prai Kitchen
• Meçha Noodle Bar
• Blue Elephant Trail

“I believe this is a creative program that will help West Hartford restaurants as well as the tireless and dedicated workers that are doing their best to keep us healthy,” said Bob Hagmeier, owner of Harry’s Pizzeria & Tavern.

When purchasing a gift card, mention “West Hartford Cares” at the time of the transaction, Gorski said.

Those who participate in the program are urged to share their efforts with the hashtag #WestHartfordGives, and tag the Town of West Hartford and the West Hartford Chamber on Facebook as well as Instagram posts.