What The Heck?
You’ve Got Questions? We’ve Got Smart Alec (but legitimate) Answers
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Who are we?: The Double D Diner, The World’s Only Virtual Diner Fighting Hunger, is a subsidiary of One Less Meal, Inc.; a nonprofit organization that believes that if everyone (yes, that means you) consumed one less meal on a regular basis and donated that meal to those in need we could break the cycle of hunger and poverty that exists in the United States. To learn more about hunger and food in the United States please visit this US Dept of Agriculture link.
When did you officially open?: Here’s our Official Press Release
How Do We Reach People?: Using the power of the Internet and Social Media (since no one actually talks face-to-face these days; which is also why we decided to open a virtual diner), One Less Meal will create a nationwide challenge while providing an interactive and fun format to raise funds (go get your credit card) for smaller, lesser known food pantries, food banks, and homeless shelters that are making a difference.
Who is The Hunger Hero?: We’ve been trying to figure that out too. All we know is that he is willing to deliver your donations to people in need all around the country. But here’s something odd…..we have never seen him and Clyde in the same place at the same time. But come to think of it we don’t even know what Clyde looks like?
Where does the money go?: Guest Checks are being remitted to different food banks, pantries and soup kitchens around the United States. It is our goal to have representation from each of the 50 United States and we would love to hear your ideas. Please email us with your ideas and we will surely reach out to learn more. Hint: We are looking for gems that are making a difference but really need the exposure and have the financial need.
My doctor says I shouldn’t skip a meal: Then donate a dessert. We could all do without a dessert – although we do make a mean peach cobbler. And anyway, your doctor told you to lose weight, exercise and quit smoking too. How’s that working for ya, darlin’?
Are you legitimate?: We are incorporated in the State of CT; you can contact the Secretary of State if you don’t believe us. One Less Meal, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization as determined by the Internal Revenue Service. But if you really want to know how legitimate we are, get in touch with us and we’ll put you in touch with the people who are receiving your donations. 100% of your donation should be tax deductible; as you are receiving no benefit from it. Clyde used to be an accountant and knows this stuff (he’s having much more fun now though); but everyone’s circumstances are different; so talk to your tax preparer.
How can I get in touch to really find out what the heck this is all about?:
- Well you can email us by going to the Keep In Touch page
- You can send us a nice letter or postcard to: One Less Meal, PO Box 584, Marion CT 06444
- You can call the Double D direct at 513.443.4637 (513.44DINER); Ask for Clyde. He handles all business matters.
Why should I donate to you versus directly to an organization in need?:
- Nothing wrong with doing that, we’re all looking to combat the same battle, but let’s face it, we’re providing a fun format for you to make a difference
- Our operating expenses are probably lower than the other guys, so the amount of food or money delivered may be greater
- One Less Meal, Inc. is actively searching out smaller, lesser known agencies who are making a difference
- Oh yeah, are you really going to drag your canned goods down to the shelter? How many times have you had that fleeting thought?
If you had to thank somebody for helping you make your videos, who would it be?: Well that’d be Jimmy at Junipers (Middlebury, CT), Scott Q, Margie T, Jessica P, Don S, Monica P. Michelle G, & Cookie C. I’m sure we forgot a few people. If we did get in touch.
How Much Of My Donation Goes To the Food Banks?: Like any organization One Less Meal has Operating Expenses. But being a virtual diner, we have no inventory, payroll, wasteful napkin usage or senior citizens stealing the sugar substitute packages. And in the spirit of our mission, there will be no wasteful spending on corporate retreats in the Caribbean, like you-know-who; we’re trying to do something good here and aim to keep our operating expenses at less than 10%.
Private Parts: We respect you and your privacy. We will never, ever, ever sell or give your name to anyone. The only mailing lists you will be added to are ours. And if you don’t want to be added to those; just go the contact page, send us a message and Clyde will remove you as fast as it takes to make grits.
We Love Everyone: One Less Meal doesn’t discriminate on the basis of age, race, gender, sexual orientation, hair color, weight, eye color, body piercings, people who don’t wear purple clothing, or anything else you can think of. If an organization is doing good things and needs our help we’re out there looking for a place to turn over your donations.
Board, but not Bored, Members: These are the people who are giving of their time and advice to advance our work. They keep Clyde and the rest of the gang in line. Feel free to contact them. If you are interested in learning about Board opportunities bring us the broomstick of the Wicked Witch of, oh wait that’s been done already; order the Philanthropy Pie Plate and send us a note. We’re serious. We want to know you’re committed.
- Rich DiGirolamo, Chief Cook & Bottle Washer
- Alisa Hunt, Cashier/Money Launderess (we want to make sure the donations are clean when they reach the recipients; nothing worse than sticky coins left on tables put into a sack)
- Jean Kannan, Head Wait Person (takes notes on all our decisions; but makes us wait to see them in print)
- Nancy Morse, Bus Person (good thing there are no tables to bus, cuz her brains are what we need her for not her brawn)
