Throughout September, members of the community can support the St. Johns County Council on Aging’s work just by dining at the Columbia Restaurant in downtown St. Augustine.
The opportunity for the community to give back is part of the Columbia’s month-long Community Harvest initiative, now in its 27th year, where the company donates 5% of all diners’ checks to charities selected by the guests themselves.
During the month, guests can dine at the Columbia Restaurant and choose Council on Aging from a ballot provided with the check.
“We are so thankful to the Columbia Restaurant for their continued support for our mission,” said COA executive director Becky Yanni. “Our generous partners in the community make it possible for us to be there for seniors and those who care for them.”
The restaurant calculates the 5% and provides the charity with gift certificates that may be used at any of their associated restaurants for up to one year. There is no additional cost to the guest.
The Columbia Restaurant is located at 98 St. George Street in downtown St. Augustine. To view their menu and to make a reservation, go to www.columbiarestaurant.com/historic-district-st-augustine.
In 27 years, the company’s month-long Community Harvest program has provided $4 million to Florida nonprofit organizations, including much of that going back into the Northeast Florida area.
“As we look ahead to the Columbia’s 120th anniversary in 2025, I’m reminded that great restaurants are more than just places to eat; they’re part of the fabric of the community,” said fourth generation caretaker and president Richard Gonzmart. “I started this program to help many of the worthy non-profits so important to the people who live near our restaurants across Florida. The simple concept is to ‘Eat Well and Do Good.’ It’s a delicious way to help these organizations.”
The original Columbia Restaurant was founded in Tampa’s Historic Ybor City in 1905 by Cuban immigrant Casimiro Hernandez, Sr., and is Florida’s oldest restaurant.
All 1905 Family of Restaurants in Florida are participating in the Community Harvest program, including Columbia Restaurants in Ybor City Tampa, Sarasota, St. Augustine, Clearwater Beach, Celebration, downtown Tampa, and Tampa International Airport.
For more information on the Council on Aging’s programs and services for St. Johns County seniors and caregivers, go to www.coasjc.org or call 904-209-3700.
