Hi my name is Jez and I'm fundraising for the hourly staff at popular downtown Calgary restaurant Salt & Brick.

Unfortunately fire crews were alerted to a fire at the rear of the restaurant at 211 10 Avenue SW in the early hours of Wednesday 17th December.

The fire damaged not only the restaurant but Charlie’s speakeasy, which is a bar hidden away in the restaurant. The fire is being treated as arson by Calgary Police who are investigating the incident. They are asking public assistance in identifying a suspect.

As of yet both Salt & Brick and Charlie’s have no projected reopening date as the fire and smoke damage is assessed.

As you can imagine that this is a massive loss to a number of people at this time of year, with bookings for Christmas parties and guests being cancelled.

This not only has a huge impact on the business but the hourly staff, who would be relying on the income they make over the festive season to ensure they can make monthly housing payments and enjoy the season with family and friends.

To help ease the stress and financial burden on the hourly staff I am asking for people to give to this fundraiser. The money raised will be divided amongst the hourly staff to help cover lost earnings.

Thank you for reading their story and any amount is generously appreciated.