Marx Café’s owners say even though the government shutdown ended, the need is still there.
WASHINGTON — A business in D.C.’s Mt. Pleasant neighborhood is helping feed the hungry. Marx Café is collecting food from the community to serve their neighbors in need.
The idea was born when some of Marx Café’s clients were affected by the government shutdown, but even with the shutdown behind us, there’s still a need.
“This will help a little bit,” said Jerrone, who stopped by the food bank outside Marx Café.
He lives around the corner.
“There’s a lot of community help around here. A lot,” he said.
This week, this neighborhood bar is stepping up to help anyone who passes by.
Daniel Quiroz co-owns Marx Café. He came to the United States 20 years ago from Bolivia.
“We have gotten a lot from America, and it’s a way for us to give a little bit back,” said Quiroz.
By letting others take what they need.
“I’m painting signs, right onto their plastic siding,” said Rebecca Scothorn, a local artist pitching in.
Making sure you can’t miss Marx Café’s outdoor food bank.
“They said they wanted things to be pretty, and I said I can help things look pretty and people deserve to have food,” she said.
Marx Café began taking donations and filling food bins on Wednesday. That night, the government shutdown ended, but ownership knows there’s still a need in this community.
“It’s real helpful, real helpful,” said Jerrone. “The community is really helpful, and it looks good out here.”
On Sunday, Marx Café will promote its efforts with an all-day community food bank kickoff featuring local artists and live music.
“Whatever they don’t pick up, we’re going to donate it to a local food bank or maybe a local charity or something like that,” said Quiroz.