As we rush around trying to check off our own gift lists, it’s important to remember less fortunate neighbors whose most basic needs may otherwise go unmet: a nutritious meal, sobriety programs, equitable academic opportunity, or shelter. The UP community can leverage support by patronizing and giving to the philanthropic endeavors of these restaurants, breweries, and agencies. 

Know of others? Please tell us about them in the comments!

Start by parking your sleigh in front of NoDa Brewing Company’s North End taproom. Then, play Santa’s helper by making a tax-deductible donation to Charlotte Wine + Food’s Holiday Gift Drive. Lastly, be sure to bring out the entire family for some fun at Community Matters Cafe, while at the same time contributing to Charlotte Rescue Mission. 

“You Drink, We Donate!” at NoDa Brewing Company, North End

Tuesday, Dec. 14 (4 p.m. to 9 p.m.) 

NoDa Brewing Company kicked off a month of giving on December 1 with a free “Sip & Paint” event, just for teachers. Now, the brewers at NoDa are carrying that charitable spirit onward by dedicating a “You Drink, We Donate!” (YDWD) night to Loaves & Fishes. 

2021 has been a tremendous year of need for the hunger-fighting organization, which has already delivered groceries to the homes of more than 10,000 clients, about a third of whom are children and seniors. This figure has already surpassed last year’s total. COVID-19 has strained resources for nonprofits and the restaurant industry alike. “With rising food costs and higher heating and utility bills this winter, we are expecting an increase in those who need a hand up right now,” Sue Bruce of Loaves & Fishes says.

Take a break from holiday errands and fuss toast to this good cause. Sample a seasonal Cranberry Gose or Hoppy Holiday specialty IPA or have a year-round favorite like Jam Session, Hop Drop ‘N Roll, or Radio Haze. During this event, NoDa Brewing will donate $1 of every pint poured at the North End taproom to Loaves & Fishes. 

 

Charlotte Wine + Food Holiday Gift Drive for Nonprofits

through Wednesday, Dec. 15

Not sure what to get for the people in your life who have everything? With the simple click of a mouse, you can donate in their honor and instantly impact the lives of children and families receiving the below Charlotte-based services. All donations submitted to the Holiday Gift Drive help fulfill four nonprofit partners’ wish lists. A minimum $4,000 collection is needed to provide these items, according to the CW+F elves:

A Child’s Place (ACP) requested new winter jackets for 52 children who are experiencing homelessness in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg area. 

Augustine Literacy Project (ALP) requested 75 copies of Amanda Gorman’s children’s book, Change Sings, A Children’s Anthem, to give to ALP tutors to read aloud with their students and to give them the book.

GenOne has requested a brand new Apple Air laptop to gift to a deserving graduating high school senior, a valuable and necessary tool for any college-bound student. 

The Learning Collaborative (TLC) has requested a set of new socks, underwear, sweatpants, and shirts for each of the 50 preschool children currently enrolled in their tuition-free program for underserved children.

 

Christmas at the Cafe – Community Matters Cafe, Uptown

Saturday, Dec. 18 (11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) 

Christmas at the Cafe brings together Charlotte families and Community Matters Cafe students in a fun, casual setting. Register to save your spot for this free, family-friendly event with plenty of holiday activities like a gingerbread house making competition, hot chocolate sipping, and cookie decorating. Supporting the restaurant also supports its staff, students actively honing the life skills needed to move forward on their path toward sobriety — and allows them to see firsthand the value they hold to their wider Charlotte community. Proceeds from the event benefit Charlotte Rescue Mission’s addiction recovery programs.  

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