In Light of the Current Humanitarian Crisis in Afghanistan, the Fast-Casual Restaurant Will Support an Organization Providing Safehold for Afghan Refugees
iniBurger, a Bay Area-based gourmet burger concept which donates a percentage of sales monthly to local charitable organizations, has pledged to donate August and September proceeds to the International Rescue Committee (IRC) of Northern California in light of the ongoing humanitarian crises in Afghanistan. The Afghan-born founders will be specifically contributing to the organization’s “Afghan Soft Landing Fund,” which is allocated to cover emergency temporary housing costs, rental, and utility assistance for refugee families.
Since opening in July 2020, the 100% halal fast-casual concept has dedicated a percentage of each month’s sales to local causes which include organizations that fight the hunger and homelessness epidemics. To date, the community-centric company has donated over $10,000 to local charities.
Beginning in 1988, iniBurger’s August and September beneficiary, the IRC has been on the ground in Afghanistan providing aid both during and after Taliban rule with thousands of offices across the nation where 99% of the staff are Afghanistan citizens. Their work in Afghanistan includes:
- Providing displaced families with basic necessities such as tents, clean water, and sanitation
- Supporting over 100 health facilities by installing hand-washing stations and providing information and training in response to COVID-19.
- Providing safe learning spaces in rural areas
- Helping Afghan citizens find employment
In the United States, the IRC resettles Afghan refugees by providing housing, employment, health care, education, and other comprehensive services.
“Abdul and I are horrified to see what is currently happening in Afghanistan, especially because our home country has been experiencing disaster for decades,” says Leeza Popal. “As a company that was founded on a mission to support our communities, we are honored to support the International Rescue Committee, especially during this crucial time, and to contribute to the great work they are doing for Afghans both overseas and in the States. We hope that we can lead by example and inspire others in the Bay Area community to step up and support in any way they can.”
While the Bay Area concept has built community and philanthropy into the core of its business model from its establishment, the owners Abdul and Leeza Popal feel that the best way to give back to the community this month is to directly support the aid of those experiencing the ongoing civil rights crises. Every sale made at iniBurger’s Pleasanton and Fremont locations will impact Afghan citizens and refugees by providing services to civilians experiencing crisis in Afghanistan as well as displaced families who have come to find refuge in the United States in need of support and a safehold. iniBurger is also interested in creating job opportunities for refugees who are resettling into the Bay Area.
Please visit www.rescue.org to learn more about the organization’s mission.
Founded on a mission to serve gourmet customizable burgers in a modern and accessible way, iniBurger’s philosophy is four-fold: Custom, Clean, Community and Halal. iniBurger offers a variety of patties including Angus Beef, Grilled Chicken, Veggie, Falafel, & Nashville Hot Crispy Chicken to suit many taste profiles, and guests can customize their perfect gourmet burger to their preferences. iniBurger is proud to use only the highest-grade, clean, natural and 100% halal proteins and sustainably-sourced ingredients in its menu of burgers and traditional sides including chicken wings, fries and shakes. Rooted in community, iniBurger also donates a percentage of profits to benefit local community efforts and organizations. Founded during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, iniBurger Gourmet, Your Way boasts great food that’s great for you, iniWay you want it. For more information visit www.iniBurger.com.
