NEW ORLEANS (press release) – Fidelity Bank officials presented a check of $15,000 to the Louisiana Hospitality Foundation (LHF) with funds raised from the third-annual P.O.W.E.R. Plates Program. The month-long, regional celebration of women in the hospitality industry that took place in July was part of Fidelity’s “Potential of Women Entrepreneurs Realized” (P.O.W.E.R.) program.
This year, LHF and Fidelity Bank more than tripled the number of participating businesses in the P.O.W.E.R. Plates program by expanding it to a record 67 women-led companies in New Orleans, the Northshore and Baton Rouge. This year’s program was sponsored by Neat Wines. The goal of the program was to raise awareness and drive business to women-led restaurants, hotels and bars across South Louisiana as the hospitality industry continues to recover from the devastating impacts of the COVID pandemic.
“This year was our most successful P.O.W.E.R. Plates Program ever,” said Elizabeth Broekman, Fidelity Bank Director of P.O.W.E.R. “It’s an honor to raise awareness for and to present a check of $15,000 to the Louisiana Hospitality Foundation which provides financial assistance for Louisiana’s hospitality industry workers during emergencies.
During the month of July, guests who visited any of the 65 restaurants and bars enrolled in the program were able to choose the special P.O.W.E.R. Plates featured dish or drink and have $1 donated to the Louisiana Hospitality Foundation. Fidelity Bank matched donations up to $2,500. This year’s grand total of $15,000 is a new record for the annual program launched in 2017.
“Women in Louisiana’s hospitality industry have tremendous talent and provide important leadership for the industry as a whole,” said LHF Executive Director Jennifer Kelley. “Programs like Fidelity Bank’s P.O.W.E.R. are crucial in bringing women to the forefront and highlighting their successes. The funds raised from this year’s program will undoubtedly benefit the amazing women in hospitality.”
Officials say plans are already underway for an expanded 2022 version of P.O.W.E.R. Plates.
