Hattie's Helping Hands Aims to Serve Local Community

Officially launched on February 28, HHH aims to support local not-for-profits and streamline donation requests while connecting with people who care with causes that matter to the community. 

Hattie's Co-owner Elizabeth Alexander said that every year there are many, many requests to be the beneficiary of Mardi Gras and that while it would be wonderful to say "yes" to everyone, it's just not possible.

"It's important to support our community and hometown, which really follows in Hattie's footsteps. Hattie Grey was unwavering in her commitment to help her neighbors and we feel very strongly about it ourselves. We here at Hattie's make a conscious effort to do whatever we can to help raise awareness and dollars but more importantly, improve the lives of others who are not as fortunate. The need is greater than ever right now - and as much as we wish we could help out every organization - we do need to taper requests which is how "Hattie's Helping Hands" came about and we are very excited about it," Alexander said.

After launching the program early last week, there have already been more than five requests for donations, Alexander added.

HHH breaks down into four categories:

1.Gift Certificate Donation Requests: these are limited for the year and are given out in $25 increments to a registered 501(c) not-for-profit in the Capital Region. Requests need to be filled out 8 weeks in advance.

2.Food Donation Requests: due to kitchen demands, these requests are only for registered 501(c) Saratoga-based not-for-profits. Requests need to be filled out 8 weeks in advance.

3.HHH Throwdowns: six dinners will be allocated throughout the year for not-for-profits. They will take place on the first Tuesday of the month except for January, April, August and September. Hattie's will donate 20 percent of the profits for that designated charity. Requirements - must be a registered 501(c) not-for-profit within the Capital Region.

4.Mardi Gras Recipient: the Annual Hattie's Mardi Gras is in its 8th year. Recipients have been chosen through 2012; however, Hattie's is currently looking at 2013 and 2014. This annual event attracts close to 300 attendees and is held mid-to-late January every year. Proceeds for this event benefit the chosen not-for-profit. 2010 recipient was Saratoga Hospital; 2011 is Saratoga Bridges and 2012 is Saratoga Sponsor-A-Scholar.

Organizations may apply by downloading the Hattie's Helping Hands Request Form from Hattie's website located at www.hattiesrestauant.com/helping_hands. Recipients will be chosen by an unbiased committee with final decisions being made by owners Jasper and Elizabeth Alexander.

"We have two small children that live in this community, and if we can act today to make Saratoga a better place for them tomorrow, then we are happy to do it," Elizabeth Alexander said.