North Star Deli Employee Relief Fund

Last week, North Star Deli was directly targeted while we were at work. After multiple attempts by ICE agents to enter our restaurant, our staff was harassed and subjected to obscenities that left everyone fearful for their safety and well-being.

We are deeply grateful that no one was detained that day, but the experience has shaken our team and forced us to make immediate and painful changes.

Out of an abundance of caution and with our staff’s safety as our top priority, we’ve had to drastically cut our hours. The restaurant is now operating at less than half capacity as we face continued targeting due to our proximity to one of the largest ICE hot zones in recent weeks.

This was not an easy decision. We opened our doors just six months ago, still finding our footing as a new small business. Now, our resources are stretched thin as we’ve redirected funds to support our team — many of whom are unable to work out of fear for their safety and separation from their families.

Our staff is the heart of North Star Deli. Many rely on their hourly wages to support loved ones and pay rent. This sudden loss of income has placed an enormous financial burden on them, and we are doing everything we can to help — but we can’t do it alone.

These funds will help provide direct assistance for rent, groceries, and family needs for our team members who are now facing uncertainty and hardship.

At this time, North Star Deli remains open, with just our chef, owner, and one staff member keeping things running as best we can and with the help of our community watching our doors. We will continue to monitor the situation closely, always prioritizing our safety and that of our guests.

Our mission has always been about people first — our staff, their families, and the community that has supported us from day one.

Any contribution — whether it’s donating to this relief fund or simply sharing our story — makes a real difference.

We are profoundly grateful for the continued solidarity, compassion, and love our community has shown during this difficult moment. We will continue to provide updates as things evolve, and we look forward to the day when North Star Deli can once again serve you all in full, with the warmth and spirit that define us.

With love and gratitude,

The North Star Deli Family