Help Southern Fresh Reopen After Hurricanes

Help keep the doors open at Southern Fresh. Chef Aaron and Jamie have helped our community thrive since their doors opened in 2012. They're often the first to offer a hand to a community member, another business owner, or a cause. Aaron has created several fundraisers over the years, including for a family who lost their home to fire; a local business-woman going through breast cancer treatments; an employee in need of eye surgery, to name a few. When I saw a recent facebook post that Aaron wrote, it concerned me: one of my favorite Safety Harbor establishments was in trouble.

When I asked Aaron if he'd be OK with me starting a fundraiser, he hesitated. But he admitted that this time of year is when they're getting ready for the busy season--the time when the slowness of summer turns to fall, with cooler temperatures attracting customers to their outdoor tables and firepit--the perfect downtown vibe and setting! If they close their doors now, he is afraid they will never be able to reopen them.

The Covid 19 pandemic was almost enough to drive them under. But they recovered, just barely. Now, over the past two months, three hurricanes have made it seem impossible for them to run a successful restaurant. Debby, Helene, and Milton caused major back-to-back inventory losses. Thousands of dollars in food loss has caused Southern Fresh to close its doors. "The most sickening feeling is not being able to pay my employees," Aaron shared. "But we're going to do whatever we can to regroup and continue to give forward."

Note: My name is Laura Kepner and I am a Safety Harbor resident. I am not taking any money from this fundraiser. The bank account connected to it belongs to Southern Fresh. I will moderate the fundraiser--messages, etc. Aaron is part of our city's rich history, and so is Jamie! They have worked so hard over the past twelve years. I hope you feel like I do and if you're able to contribute, even a few dollars will help. Thank you from the bottom of my heart and more importantly, from theirs.