Mama Dot’s is seeking funds for a roof leak.
Photo courtesy of Rayven James
LIMA — Mama Dot’s Soulfood Kitchen is organizing a “Raise the Roof” event to raise funds for infrastructure repair and renovations.
The event will take place from 2 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 1.
“We will host a soul food Sunday as usual, but since takeout is the only option, we will set up things outside for people to hang out and enjoy themselves,” said Rayven James, the granddaughter of the owner.
Some potential sponsors for the event are The Learning Castle daycare center and Plush Cookies, both from Lima.
“We are looking to raise at least $25,000,” James said. There has been about $200 raised so far.
James said she is seeking help from more organizations in Lima as well as larger cities such as Columbus to help get the restaurant back on the right track.
“The biggest thing to make this event work is to try to get more sponsors and people from the community to help,” she said.
It’s a chance for the community to help build up the restaurant, formerly known as the Rib Cage Grill and Cafe.
“Business was thriving until COVID hit, causing a slowdown,” said owner Dorothy Knuckles. These challenges, along with her husband’s health issues, have diverted attention from the restaurant.
The family will share updates and possible ways to donate on its Facebook page, bit.ly/3SxkRvU.
Both women expressed interest in partnering with a food delivery service such as Doordash or GrubHub after the restaurant is repaired, seeing it as another way to increase its visibility.
Reach Cade Higgins at 567-242-0351
