One Year and 878,165 meals served

Step Up to the Plate is a program that was created in response to the extreme crisis of hunger that accompanied the COVID-19 pandemic, disproportionately affecting Philadelphia’s most vulnerable. Starting on April 16, 2020, Catering By Design became a part of this amazing program. Through a coordinated effort between nonprofits who work with vulnerable populations, city management, philanthropic leaders, and restaurant and catering partners, this program is a central part of the City of Philadelphia’s efforts to address housing and food insecurity during the coronavirus pandemic.

We can’t help but reflect on the generosity of spirit we have witnessed throughout the pandemic. Thousands of people came together including our amazing staff, who worked tirelessly during a very scary and uncertain time. As we navigated the uncertainty surrounding the event planning industry during COVID-19, Step Up To The Plate was a constant that helped us keep the lights and burners on at CBD. Thank you to everyone involved and to everyone in the city who stepped up in their own way to help those who needed it.