By Mark Scott
Buffalo, NY – The fourth annual Dining Out for Life takes place Tuesdy at restaurants throughout the Buffalo area. Funds raised will benefit two local agencies that provide services to people with HIV and AIDS.
This year, a record 79 restaurants are participating in Dining Out for Life. Each restaurant will contribute at least 25 percent of their profits from Tuesday evening's food sales to AIDS Community Services and AIDS Family Services. Chris Volz of AIDS Community Services says it's a win-win for the agencies and the restaurants.
"Tuesdays are a slow night for restaurants. What we're able to do through a great deal of promotion is bring them a really busy night," Volz said.
Volz says all types of restaurants are participating.
"It's the entire spectrum from pizza to the finest dining establishments in town," Volz said.
The first Dining Out for Life held in 2003 had 27 participating restaurants, raising $22,000. This year, Volz says the money raised this year will be significantly greater.
"The average has come in at about $1,000 per restaurant," Volz said. "So, we're hoping to raise about $75,000 this year."
Volz says all the money raised stays in the region. He says the proceeds fund community educational programs, medical care, counseling and nutritious meals.
A list of participating restaurants is available at www.diningoutforlife.com.