44°
PORT CHESTER, N.Y. -- As part of a community effort to encourage families to sit down together for a meal, some local restaurants are offering special discounts this Friday.
"We're not only a restaurant that's in business," said John Ruggiero, co-owner of T & J's Pizza and Pasta. "But (we're) very much a part of the community."
Ruggiero's restaurant, along with several others, are participating in "First Fridays," which is part of a community initiative led by the Port Chester Cares Community Coalition to foster communication and unity among families. "Having a meal together gives parents the opportunity to find out what's going on in their kids' lives," said Joan Thomas, co-chair of the group.
Thomas said these types of activities create a positive environment for children and teenagers, providing them with self-confidence and helping them to avoid negative behavior such as substance abuse.
"Everyone has a vested interest in seeing our kids grow up in a positive environment," said Thomas.
The coalition has already sent out special key cards to all families with children in the Port Chester-Rye Brook School District, which must be shown to participating restaurants in order to receive a discount. Families who have lost their key cards can contact the group to get a new one. Discounts vary between restaurants. For a complete list of participating restaurants visit the PCCCC blog or call 914-255-4856.
How important is it for you to have a meal together with your family?
Click here to follow Daily Voice Port Chester and receive free news updates.
