Eat for a Purpose: Columbia Eateries Kick Off 28th Annual Community Harvest Fundraiser This September

Eat Well and Do Good: Support Florida Non-Profits Just by Dining Out in September

For the 28th year, food enthusiasts in Florida can contribute to local charities simply by dining out. The 1905 Family of Restaurants, which includes iconic spots like Columbia Restaurant, Cha Cha Coconuts, Ulele, and Casa Santo Stefano, is once again launching its beloved Community Harvest Program throughout September.

This long-standing initiative donates 5% of each guest’s pre-tax check to the charity of their choice, at no additional cost to diners. Since the program began, it has raised over $4.4 million for Florida non-profits.

🍽️ Participating Restaurants:

• Columbia Restaurant (7 locations):
  • Ybor City (Tampa’s Historic District)
  • St. Armands Circle (Sarasota)
  • Historic St. Augustine
  • Sand Key (Clearwater Beach)
  • Celebration (Central Florida)
  • Columbia Café at the Tampa Bay History Center (Downtown Tampa)
  • Columbia Café at Tampa International Airport
• Cha Cha Coconuts – St. Armands Circle, Sarasota
• Ulele – Tampa Heights
• Casa Santo Stefano – Historic Ybor City, Tampa

🌟 How It Works:

1. Dine at any participating restaurant during September.
2. Receive a ballot with your check and select your favorite charity.
3. The restaurant calculates 5% of your check and donates it in the form of gift certificates to the charity you selected.
4. Charities use the certificates for fundraising, raffle baskets, volunteer appreciation, and more.

One notable beneficiary is Suncoast Charities for Children, which provides support for individuals with special needs and their families in the Sarasota-Bradenton area. They utilize donated gift certificates for raffles, tournament prizes, and as thank-you gifts for parents.

This year’s Community Harvest is especially significant as the Columbia Restaurant celebrates its 120th anniversary. Founded in 1905 in Ybor City by Cuban immigrant Casimiro Hernandez Sr., it remains Florida’s oldest family-owned restaurant, currently operated by the Gonzmart family across four to five generations.

“During Columbia’s 120th anniversary celebration, I am reminded that great restaurants are more than places to eat; they’re integral to the community,” noted Richard Gonzmart, President and 4th generation caretaker. “The simple idea is to ‘Eat Well And Do Good.’ It’s a delicious way to help these organizations.”

Photos from Suncoast Charities for Children