If you haven’t heard, a natural gas leak caused a giant explosion on Greenwood Avenue North and 85th Street Wednesday morning. Three businesses including Neptune Coffee, Mr. Gyros and a Quick Stop convenience store were completely destroyed and 36 others suffered damage. Fortunately, nobody was seriously injured.
The Greenwood community has banded together to support their local businesses. Chocolati and Volunteers of America distributed beverages to first responders, Coyle’s Bakeshop brought out baked goods for firefighters, and even Emerald City Karate opened up their dojo as a command post for first responders.
Here’s a few creative ways you can help your neighborhood business owners, workers and consumers get back on their feet this weekend.
Friday, March 11th
Drink a brew at Reuben’s Brews. Reuben’s will be donating $1 for every pint, growler, or set of three tasters to the relief effort. They are open from noon until 9pm and will be donating on all beers throughout the day. Once you’ve had your fill, buy a monkey! The Phinney Neighborhood Association is selling lighted holiday monkeys as a fundraiser for the Greenwood Relief Fund. Monkeys can be purchased for $300 or more ($200 of which is tax-deductible). You can choose from both a “standing monkey” and a “scampering monkey”. Choose wisely.
Saturday, March 12th
Naked City Brewery is teaming up with Derek Sheen to present a Stand Up Comedy Benefit Show for businesses and employees affected by the explosion in Greenwood. Featuring Derek Sheen, Elicia Sanchez, Drew Barth, and Xung Lam. Tickets are $10 at the door, with all proceeds going to the relief fund. Show starts at 8pm. Laugh till you cry and then go online and support employees of the affected businesses. Community member Jason Malcom created a gofundme campaign to support the employees at the businesses affected by the explosion. If live music is more your thing, Taproot Theatre’s Stage Door Cafe will be hosting the band IvyLane from 6pm to 8 pm. A portion of the proceeds made at this event will be going to help their neighbors.
Sunday, March 13th
The Heavy Restaurant Group is collecting donations at all their locations this weekend, and matching a percentage, so don’t miss your chance to support the community with a meal at Barrio Restaurant, Purple Café & Wine Bar, Lot No. 3, The Commons, Meet the Moon and/or Cast Iron Studios. Not in the mood to eat out? Stop by the Greenwood Fred Meyer where they are donating all the proceeds from their coin boxes to the relief effort.
If straightforward giving suits you best, you can simply donate to Greenwood Explosion Relief Efforts by clicking here.
