Bellizzi Aids in Japan Earthquake Relief Efforts

As you enter Bellizzi in Mount Kisco, you will encounter fun house mirrors, a life size stuffed golden retriever and carousel horses. You will also find a fishbowl full of cash donations for earthquake and tsunami victims in Japan.

According to Natalie Swatz, general manager of Bellizzi, “This is the second year in a row that we are dealing with the devastating consequences of a natural disaster and I felt compelled to act.”

“Last year, when the earthquake hit Haiti we, with the help of the Chamber of Commerce, were able to rally more than 15 local businesses to take action. Each in their own way was able to make a small contribution to the relief efforts. And it was no different when we first heard of the death and destruction caused be the events in Japan” she said.

Swatz estimated that the restaurant has so far raised several hundred dollars for the relief efforts. 

“We asked one customer if she could contribute a dollar or two and she threw in a one hundred dollar bill!” she said.

Not content to just solicit donations from customers, Swatz decided to step it up and offer to donate 10 percent of Saturday’s proceeds to AmeriCares Foundation, Inc. a Stamford, CT based nonprofit disaster relief and humanitarian aid organization. The organization provides immediate medical aid and supplies to those whose lives have been devastated by natural disaster and political unrest.

“Exactly what is needed in Japan.” Swatz said.

“I’m excited to see how much we will raise.” she said. “Saturday is our busiest day by far so we may be looking at some big numbers," adding that there is also a dedicate URL to send donations to, which is http://www.americares.org/bellizzi.

Debbie Cooks from Ossining was in Bellizzi mid-day to get some takeout and tossed five dollars in the fishbowl.

“I love this place!” she said. “My son had his birthday party here. These people are great – I’m happy to support their efforts.”

In general, customers seemed very supportive of the efforts. A mom with two young children was overheard saying “Wow, that’s great that you’re doing this.” to a counter person. “We can come here, have some fun, some good food and do some good, all at the same time.”