One Off Hospitality Responds to Criticism Over Coronavirus Relief Fund for Workers | Eater Chicago

"The parent company of several popular Chicago restaurants temporarily ceased delivery and carryout operations in late March and furloughed or separated roughly 700 staff as the pandemic hit. In response to a GoFundMe that raised more than $92,000 for employees across nine restaurants and bars (and two River North spots operated with a partner company), leadership distributed grocery-store gift cards—allocated according to hours worked in 2020—which some furloughed workers criticized because the fundraiser did not mention gift cards and many preferred cash for expenses such as rent. Company partners acknowledged communication flaws, defended the use of gift cards as a way to avoid creating taxable employer payments, said every cent donated has gone toward employees, and noted they have spent roughly $180,000 to extend health coverage through May while evaluating further options; they also pledged to make exceptions and to bring most employees back once dine-in service can resume." - Ashok Selvam