Back for its 24th year in Vancouver and area, the North American restaurant initiative Dining Out For Life is set to take place on March 22nd.

Originally started in 1991 in Philidelphia, this one day fundraiser is meant to raise funds, support and create awareness for people living with HIV and AIDS in communities across North America. Even though there are 50 North American cities that embrace the annual Dining Out For Life initiative, Vancouver is the only major Canadian city centre involved, initiated with the help of a Vancouverite experiencing the fundraising effort while travelling in the United States in the mid-1990s and upon returning to the West Coast.

Currently, there are more than 50 restaurants signed on to participate. All participants are commited to donating 25 per cent of their breakfast, lunch and dinner service sales (as applicable) to the local organization, A Loving Spoonful. This grassroots program provides over 100,000 free, nutritious meals to individuals and families living with HIV/AIDS in Metro Vancouver.

"I'm thrilled to once again reaffirm our commitment to this worthy cause by taking part in Dining Out For Life," says James Iranzad, partner of Gooseneck Hospitality, which is comprised of 2018 participant, Wildebeest, as well as Bells and Whistles, Bufala, and Lucky Taco. "I have personally and professionally been a big believer in this important event since its inception and am proud to support the great work that A Loving Spoonful does in our local community."

Other Vancouver restaurants taking part include El Camino, Cascade Room, Ask For Luigi and all Burgoo locations. Avalanche Pizza and Hunter Gather in Whistler are also signed on for the one-day cause.

A representative of Dining Out For Life says they are always happy to see another city come on board, so if that sentiment piques anyone's interest out there in Canada, it wouldn't hurt to test the waters in a city of your own.