(Wilsonville) Tomorrow, more than 760 Oregon restaurants will participate in Dine for America, a statewide, industry-wide event on Wednesday, October 5, to raise funds for the American Red Cross hurricane relief efforts. More than 350 of these restaurants are located in the Portland Metro area alone.

The number of participating restaurants for the fundraising event has dramatically increased from the total participation level of the first Dine for America benefit in 2001.

After September 11, 2001, the restaurant industry came together in the first Dine for America to raise funds for the American Red Cross. That year, 350 restaurants participated and collectively raised more than $300,000 for the victims of September 11 and their families.

"We're witnessing overwhelming support from the restaurant industry in providing assistance to those who have suffered the devastation of the Gulf Coast hurricanes," said Oregon Restaurant Association President/CEO Michael McCallum. "The number of restaurants participating in Dine for America-Oregon speaks volumes to how our industry is the cornerstone of community involvement and how we come together to help those in need.

"Everyone can help with this worthy cause. Whether it's your morning coffee, lunch on business, or dinner with friends and family, just having a meal can make a significant difference for those who have been devastated by the recent hurricanes."

Dine for America is the largest industry-supported effort for disaster relief in the state and is a way for all Oregonians to get involved with their local businesses in a statewide effort. To find out which restaurants are participating, check the list of Dine for America establishments, which is updated continuously at www.ora.org/katrina.

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