Optimist Hall restaurants team up to donate meals to area hospitals

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Every Tuesday, more than 100 meals are prepared by Optimist Hall tenants, which are then delivered to the hospital staff at Atrium Health CMC-Main and Mercy and Novant Health Presbyterian.

The initial idea began with just The Dumpling Lady and burger joint Bang Bang Burgers delivering weekly lunches to Atrium Health CMC-Main to help bring some relief to those working on the frontlines of the coronavirus pandemic.

But after a few weeks of adjusting delivery logistics, more restaurants joined in on the effort.

And with the help of Papi Queso, Ava Pizza, Zukku Sushi, Bao and Broth, K&N BBQ, Cousins Maine Lobster, Ernie’s Smokehouse and Sweet Girl Cookies, the combined group was able to add Atrium Health Mercy and Novant Health Presbyterian to its weekly delivery schedule.

Qian Zhang and John Nisbet, owners of The Dumpling Lady, said, “We think it’s important for individuals, families, and business to help the larger community in any way that makes sense for them. For us, we can make food. Although there are tons of people who need and deserve help during the pandemic, we thought the little help we could offer the hospitals would make their day a little better, and let them know that they are appreciated, especially during a time like this.”

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In addition to weekly lunch donations, Optimist Hall teamed up with local artist, Mike Wirth, to create a “thank you” mural for the front liners sacrificing their time, personal safety and safety of their families to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

The imagery, inspired by Norman Rockwell’s “Golden Rule” painting, features stylized masked figures wearing the uniforms of essential workers.

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