Some of the biggest names in hospitality have joined forces to launch HelpOutHospo, supporting hospitality workers without income by sharing hospitality skills with people stuck at home.
The “by hospo, for hospo” initiative is centred around an interactive video library, featuring cooking and mixology lessons for everyday Australians.
Venues post ‘how-to’ videos and receive financial support through the purchase of the video by consumers. The ‘donation’ made for the video, starting at $10, goes straight to the pockets of chefs, bartenders and restaurant owners.
The HelpOutHospo website provides access for consumers including ability to make further donation, and information for venues wanting to get involved. In the days since launch $35,040 has been raised (at time of publishing).
HelpOutHospo is a not-for-profit established by Momento Hospitality, and already counts Feros Group, Neil Perry’s Rockpool Dining Group, and celebrity chef Matt Moran as partners.
“As an industry, we have a responsibility to care for own during this tough time,” says Moran.
“Initiatives like HelpOutHospo give consumers the chance to give back, learn something new and support their favourite chef or bartender during one of the most challenging periods in Australia’s dining history.”
The concept was inspired by the selfless action of one of the Momento group chefs, who out of generosity offered his last remaining shifts to his colleagues. In appreciation, colleagues offered to film him cook his signature dishes and sell them to the community to help raise money for him.
The HelpOutHospo videos accommodate all skill levels and offer an increasing variety of culinary creations, such as all the steps to mastering a roast porchetta, including trussing, seasoning and the crispiest crackling.
Budding mixologists can get instruction on everything needed to set up a home bar, or try their hand at shaking the perfect Old-Fashioned, dry martini or Caprioska.
“Working from home isn’t an option for the hospitality industry and so incomes have just dried up,” offers Jason Jelicich, Momento director heading up the initiative.
“Social distancing and self-isolation mean that Aussies can be creative on dining out at home while supporting their favourite restaurants. HelpOutHospo empowers Aussies to improve their home experiences during this time of solitude while paying it forward to the hospitality industry.”
Industry suppliers have already stepped up in response, Carlton & United Breweries and Brown Forman contributing funds as major sponsors.
Venues looking to get involved and contribute videos to generate funds for their team should enquire to support@helpouthospo.com.au.
