Houston chefs team up to provide relief for Louisiana residents after Hurricane Harvey

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Two things I’ve noticed in my short time as a Houstonian: People from Houston will never miss a chance to talk about their city (seriously), and they always find a way to come together when others are in need.

What I’m pleased to discover though, is that showing compassion for others isn’t just exclusive to people in Houston.

Hurricane Laura was a Category 4 hurricane when she tore through Louisiana on Wednesday night, and a group of chefs from the Bayou City have come together to provide relief for victims in the form of food and supplies, according to Htown meals for Hurricane Laura relief.

Chefs Ben McPherson of BOH Pasta & Pizza, Martin Weaver of Watever Fresh, Steve Sharma of El Gran Malo and Jessica Timmons of Cherry Block Craft Butcher are among those who have launched a fundraiser to raise money and collect supplies to take to Louisiana. McPherson said they’ve already been in contact with the Lake Charles police and fire departments, as well as the Cajun Navy.

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They’ve received hundreds of donations so far, already raising more than $9,000 of their $12,000 goal, but they’re not stopping. “We’re already halfway to our goal, but we won’t stop there,” McPherson told Chron.com. “The more money we raise, the more supplies we can provide.”

Every $5 donated provides a meal prepared by Andes Cafe, BOH Pasta, Cherry Block, El Big Bad, Margeux Oyster Bar or Rudyards, according to Facebook. The chefs hope to raise enough money to make 2,400 meals.

It was three years ago when Hurricane Harvey ravaged Houston, a days long storm that left behind $125 billion in damages and claimed the lives of more than 100 people.

“Back when Harvey hit us three years ago, a lot of people from that area came to our aid,” McPherson said. “This was one of the first ways I could think of to help.”

Donations can be dropped until Sunday, Aug. 30, from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. at 409 Travis Street in Downtown Houston. BOH is also accepting donations in-house for nonperishable food items, cleaning supplies and personal hygiene items.