We’re here to serve you .
From farmers to fry cooks, servers to sommeliers, Southern Smoke takes care of our own by putting dollars directly into the pockets of food and beverage workers when it’s needed most.
Whether there are unforeseen hardships or mental health needs, our funds and resources help those who put food on the table. No ask is too big or too small.
Emergency Relief Fund
Over the years, our nonprofit funds have been used to pay for essentials like groceries, clothing, and medications, and have covered the cost of rent, natural disaster damages, lost wages, and more. There’s no deadline for requests and no cap on the amount given.
Grants are awarded based on unforeseen financial crises, and applications must be submitted through our website to be considered.
To qualify for emergency relief funding, you must be currently employed in food and beverage and working a minimum of 30+ hours per week for a minimum of six months. Every applicant must provide copies of paystubs to verify employment. Each applicant can be granted once every 12 months.
Behind You: A no-cost mental health program for F+B workers.
For many, fire and sharp objects aren’t just hazards; they’re tools of the trade. Loud, stressful situations are a given. Double-shifts are standard. By day’s end, it can feel exhausting to do one more thing, even if that one thing is asking for help. So instead, we’re offering.
Through our mental health program, Behind You, we provide no-cost mental health counseling for F+B workers in California, Illinois, Louisiana, Maine, Massachusetts, New York, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. Those who live outside of the service states can apply for financial assistance for mental health crises through our Emergency Relief Fund.
Crisis Toolkit
Crises happen daily, affecting individuals and families through natural disasters, medical emergencies, work closures, and mental health issues, leading to financial hardship and distress for food and beverage (F+B) workers.
Southern Smoke Foundation is here to help. This toolkit is tailored for our SSF community, addressing the unique challenges that F+B workers face. Our goal is to help you prepare for these situations.