In support of food and beverage workers, Bale Breaker Brewing Company releases "You Are Not Alone!" with proceeds going towards "We Are Yakima"

In support of food and beverage workers, Bale Breaker Brewing Company releases "You Are Not Alone!" with proceeds going towards "We Are Yakima"
image courtesy Bale Breaker Brewing Company

image courtesy Bale Breaker Brewing Company

As most of the Pacific Northwest begins the arduous task of restoring “normalcy” for its counties and citizens, it has been important to recognize some of those impacted. Although the headlines have been riddled with stories of first responders, it is important to recognize the food and beverage industry has been dealt a heavy blow. From public houses to hotels and from meat/vegetable processing, scores of families have been impacted financially and physically. Which is why breweries like Reuben’s Brews and Bale Breaker are stepping up to support those who have lost their jobs at jobs in the food and beverage industry.

With a focus on supporting the non-profit foundation, Big Table, Reuben's Brews invited breweries around the country to support their local restaurants, bars, and lounges. Starting with a familiar label, the brewery shared their label template and the recipe for their beer, in the hopes other breweries might support the local businesses. Another of those, Yakima's Bale Breaker Brewing Company, has taken up the charge to support local businesses in the Yakima Valley. Their answer is "You Are Not Alone!", a Hazy IPA inspired by Reuben's Brews.

In collaboration with Reuben's Brews and local charity, I Heart Yakima, Bale Breaker Brewing Company has released a unique Hazy IPA with the central goal of support those financially impacted by COVID-19.

100% of the profits from beer sales will be donated to the “We Are Yakima” fund, a referral-based program managed by I Heart Yakima in which grocery store gift cards will be gifted to nominees from the food and beverage industry to help alleviate financial burdens caused by the current pandemic. Anyone in the community can refer a coworker, employee, or friend who has lost their job or significant hours within the food and beverage industry. Donations will come from individuals, local businesses, and sales of Bale Breaker’s “You Are Not Alone” beer.

Founded to support families, affected financially by the stay at home order, in Washington state, I Heart Yakima connects food and beverage workers with gift cards, to assist with grocery necessities.

“When our friends over at Reuben’s Brews approached us about brewing a beer to help our fellow industry comrades, we didn’t have to think twice. It was a no-brainer,” said BBBC Co-Owner Meghann Quinn. “Community is one of our core values at Bale Breaker, and now more than ever, we are committed to supporting local and giving back to the community that has given so much to us in return.”

“Our mission is to uplift and promote our Yakima community,” said Lauren Lizardo, co-director of I Heart Yakima. “We are proud to collaborate with Bale Breaker on the ‘We Are Yakima’ fund, and we hope others will join us during this challenging time.”

Released this past weekend, via Bale Breaker's contactless Drive-Thru taproom, locals are encouraged to support your neighbors by picking up a four-pack or case (of 24). Those outside the Yakima Valley, wishing to support I Heart Yakima are encouraged to order a case of "You Are Not Alone!" for online delivery or by visiting I Heart Yakima via www.iheartyakima.com/weareyakima to make a donation.

About We Are Yakima

Founded as a collaboration between I Heart Yakima and Bale Breaker Brewing Company, We Are Yakima’s mission is to alleviate the financial burden of those in the food and beverage industry in the Yakima Valley who have been financially impacted by the COVID-19 crisis. We Are Yakima is a referral-based fundraiser: we invite anyone in the community to refer a coworker, employee, or friend who has lost their job or significant hours within the restaurant and hospital industry. Donations will come from individuals, local businesses, and sales of Bale Breaker’s “You Are Not Alone” beer – the funds will be distributed as grocery store gift cards to those in need in the area. No one should have to struggle as we all do our part in flattening the curve and keeping our community safe.

About I Heart Yakima

I Heart Yakima began in 2012 as a love letter to our beautiful, unique, growing, yet often under-appreciated valley. That love fueled promotions, projects, events, a social media platform, newsletter, and Yakima-centric apparel celebrating all that is great about our community.

As a 501c4 non-profit, our focus is building a network for local businesses and brands who are just as dedicated to loving our town – and all the people in it – as we are. We are careful to promote businesses, events, and people which center around our values: positivity, generosity, excellence, innovation, inclusivity, and partnership. We seek to always nurture a strong relationship with our community, in-person and online. Visit www.iheartyakima.com for more information.