Despite the pandemic, our communities have found new ways to support each other — even if they can’t be in the same space. In late 2020, the Seattle Kraken made a generous donation to an organization called Fine Dine Frontlines. This ultimately brought delicious meals to the Virginia Mason Cancer Institute (VMCI) team and fueled a larger fundraising effort.
Fine Dine Frontlines was launched in 2020 to support restaurant and health care workers during the pandemic. First, they raise funds from donors. Then, they use those funds to purchase meals from local restaurants, especially those owned by people of color. They give those meals to health care workers to show appreciation and boost morale.
Through Fine Dine Frontlines, VMCI team members were lucky recipients of 100 lunches from Mojito, a Cuban and Latin American restaurant in North Seattle. VMCI providers also received face coverings co-branded by Virginia Mason, the Seattle Kraken and Hockey Fights Cancer.
“This was a great opportunity to recognize the VMCI team with a gourmet lunch and thank you for their tremendous effort on behalf of our patients,” says Kim Baker, senior director of strategic marketing and community relations at Virginia Mason. “Cancer hasn’t stopped during COVID and it has been more important than ever for patients to know that they can receive the safe care they need during these uncertain times.”
After the initial lunch event, the three organizations came together to make an even greater impact: the Seattle Kraken and Virginia Mason teamed up on a fundraising campaign selling customizable facemasks. Supporters could design masks with their names, words or sayings, and the Kraken and Virginia Mason logos. Proceeds were split between Fine Dine Frontlines and the Virginia Mason Foundation.
All told, about 2,000 masks were sold to supporters in Seattle, across the country and even in Europe.
Funds raised will help Virginia Mason continue to provide excellent care and fuel Fine Dine Frontlines’ efforts to support local restaurants and health care workers.
“The Seattle Kraken, Fine Dine Front Lines and Virginia Mason coming together is a win on many levels — helping our patients and team members and supporting the restaurant industry which has been especially impacted this past year,” Kim says. “All three partners have a mission rooted in community service and this collaborative effort is a shining example.”
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