Dining out today and Saturday in Port Angeles and Sequim could help the United Way of Clallam County.
Forty-six restaurants in Port Angeles and Sequim began participating Thursday in the United Way of Clallam County’s 22nd annual Restaurant Days, which extends over three days this year.
Forks restaurants plan a separate Restaurant Day on Saturday, Oct. 22.
During Restaurant Days, establishments donate a portion of their proceeds to United Way.
“During your breakfast, lunch or dinner on Thursday, Friday or Saturday, you can help your community by eating at your favorite restaurant or stopping in for coffee or dessert,” said Tom Baermann, who is co-chairing this year’s campaign with his wife, Jackie Baermann.
“Each year, restaurants and small businesses all over Clallam County make generous contributions in support of United Way,” Tom Baermann said.
“The generosity of these businesses helps support the quality of life within our community.”
United Way has raised $106,300 toward its $1,002,011 goal for this year’s campaign.
Funds will be distributed throughout 2012 to 25 nonprofit agencies, United Way Community Initiatives — including the new “Great Beginnings” early learning initiative — and other nonprofit organizations as requested by donors.
“After four years of a down economy, we all know someone who is struggling, maybe even ourselves for the first time in our lives,” said Randy Riggins, Port Angeles Restaurant Day chairman.
“By giving to United Way, we can support local community members in ways that can make a huge difference,” he said.
Stephen Rosales, chairman of the Sequim Campaign and Sequim Restaurant Day — as well as a candidate for the Sequim School Board — said: “As so many community members struggle to survive, United Way provides a way for the entire community to work together on local solutions and local support.”
Participating restaurants and coffee stands are:
■ Port Angeles — All About Pizza, Baskin Robbins, Bella Italia, Bella Rosa Coffee House, Bushwhacker, Blackbird Coffee House, Cafe Garden, C’est Si Bon, Chestnut Cottage, Downriggers, Dynasty Chinese, First Street Haven, Fiesta Jalisco, Frugal’s, Granny’s Cafe, Itty Bitty Buzz, Joshua’s, Kokopelli Grill, Lake Crescent Lodge, Michael’s Steak and Seafood, Necessities & Temptations Espresso, Plunkin’ Shack, Rick’s Place, Sabai Thai, Sergio’s Hacienda, Smuggler’s Landing, Toga’s Soup House, Traylors, Woodfire Grill and Wine on the Waterfront.
■ Sequim — Alderwood Bistro, Applebee’s, Bento Teriyaki, Cracked Bean Espresso, Double Eagle Steak & Seafood, Dynasty Chinese, El Cazador, Islander Pizza & Pasta Shack, Kettel’s Deli, Lippert’s, Jose’s Famous Salsa, Moon Palace, Sergio’s Hacienda, Sunshine Cafe, The Oak Table and Wasabi Japanese.