Jeff Virojanapa helps his community through his food

(Allentown, PA)—Local Restaurant, Notch Modern Kitchen and Bar, donated meals for hungry and homeless men through the Allentown Rescue Mission’s Sponsor a Meal program.

Jeff Virojanapa is a restaurateur who owns two restaurants with his parents in the Allentown, Pennsylvania area: White Orchids Thai Cuisine and Notch Modern Kitchen & Bar. Born in Skokie, Illinois, Jeff moved to Allentown with his family when he was two years old. Growing up, he spent every Sunday with his parents at different eateries around town, and he worked at local restaurants throughout high school. His experiences sparked his love for the hospitality industry.

In 2007, Jeff and his parents opened White Orchids Thai Cuisine, located at The Promenade Shops in Saucon Valley. This first venture was hugely successful. In 2019, Jeff and his parents decided to open Notch Modern Kitchen & Bar. After 12 years exploring Thai cuisine at White Orchids, the Virojanapas wanted to embrace a different fare while sticking to their roots, which inspired an American menu with Asian influences. When speaking about his restaurants, Jeff says: “To me, going to a restaurant is a time to enjoy company, celebrate life, discuss opportunities, and ultimately enjoy great food.”

Unfortunately, due to COVID, many cannot go out to dine, so Notch found a way to give to the community during this time. Jeff partnered with the Allentown Rotary Club, and he donated 50 coconut rice and chicken bowls for the men at the Allentown Rescue Mission. Jeff says it is essential that he helps the community because it is a part of him. “I grew up here. My wife grew up here. My folks grew up here. So, we’ve been a part of the community for a long time, and we love giving back.”

The Allentown Rescue Mission would like to thank Jeff, the Allentown Rotary Club, and the staff at Notch for their generous donation. You are continuing to change the lives of men in the Lehigh Valley, one stomach at a time.

 

The Allentown Rescue Mission, a 501c3, 123 bed non-profit homeless shelter has been providing shelter for homeless men since 1900. In addition to emergency shelter services (365 days a year), the Mission offers a residential life skills program, and transitional employment on the Clean Team that’s available for hire to the community. The Clean Team pays the men above PA state minimum – helping them save a nest egg to transition back into the community. The Mission provides shelter services for over 946 men per year, and serves over 42,000 meals a year to men in need.

 

To refer someone to the Mission for services or to learn ways you can help make a difference please visit www.allentownrescuemission.org

Information provided to TVL by:
Stefanie Appel
Community Relations
www.allentownrescuemission.org
 

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