One thing we all love about Chicago’s restaurant scene is the social-awareness flowing throughout the community. While many are celebrating AAPI heritage this May, let’s not forget that May is also mental health awareness month. While conversations are happening across communities, many still shy away from speaking about mental health struggles especially if harm and death are involved. To raise awareness, promote conversation, and offer support to those having doing the hard work, Michelin-starred Galit will host the fourth annual ‘Pausing For The Cause’ collaboration dinner with the award-winning Daisies to benefit Vibrant Emotional Health (Vibrant) on Monday, May 22 and tickets are available here.
“Suicide is a serious health problem; however, with timely and evidence-based interventions we believe that narrative can change. We are incredibly grateful for this opportunity to reflect on the life and legacy of Anthony Bourdain, and shed light on the importance of mental and emotional health challenges in the food and wine industry,” said Kimberly Williams, President and CEO at Vibrant Emotional Health. “Since 2018, the annual Pausing for the Cause dinner has supported Vibrant’s mission to provide critical support through the national 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, and we encourage everyone in Chicago and across the nation to join us in helping raise awareness.”
For this ticketed event, Chef Zach Engel and Pastry Chef Mary Eder-McClure of Galit will be joined by Chef Joe Frillman and Pastry Chef Leigh Omilinsky of Daisies, creating a special family-style, shareable feast. The evening will be an intimate celebration of food, wine, and community. A selection of talented local sommeliers will also be in attendance to assist with wine service. Doors will open at 6:00 pm, and dinner will begin shortly after at 6:30 pm. Tickets are $375 per person and proceeds will be donated to Vibrant Emotional Health. Each set of two tickets includes a bottle of Champagne for guests to enjoy during dinner. All proceeds raised during the evening will go directly to suicide prevention initiatives at Vibrant Emotional Health.
“We’re honored to partner with the Daisies team to make a positive impact in our community by raising awareness and funds for this important cause,” says Galit’s co-owner Andrés Clavero. “Everyone deserves access to mental health resources and support, and we’re committed to doing our part to make that a reality for Chicagoans.”
Guests are welcome to bring bottles of wine to enjoy with dinner. All proceeds from the pay-what-you-want corkage fees will also be donated to Vibrant Emotional Health. A wine and cocktail list will also be available. As a highlight of the evening, guests can also participate in a silent auction and win items such as a one-night stay at the Four Seasons Chicago.
This year’s collaboration follows the success of this past fall’s event, which raised more than $50,000 for Vibrant Emotional Health, the administrator of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Amidst your busy life, let’s pause for a worthy cause and take advantage of a rare opportunity to indulge in the fabulous culinary creation of the master chefs from Galit and Daisy. Again, tickets for “Pausing for a Cause” on May 22nd are available via Resy, and all proceeds raised during the evening will benefit Vibrant Emotional Health.
Featured Image: Galit