'Do It For L.A.' Clothing Collaboration To Benefit La Poubelle

HOLLYWOOD, CA — Aiming to provide a helping hand to restaurant workers losing income due to the pandemic, L.A. Mission is launching a new 'Do It For L.A.' campaign that features restaurant-focused clothing collaborations with local artists. Up first on the list of restaurants is Hollywood's own La Poubelle, the French Bistro currently closed due to the pandemic.

In collaboration with the renowned artist Dillon Francis and streetwear brand Pizzaslime, Do It For L.A. released a merch capsule that includes short and long sleeve T-shirts, dad hats, hoodies and joggers. 100% of proceeds will go to La Poubelle staff affected by the pandemic, along with helping to feed homeless and food insecure residents of Los Angeles.

"Our goal is to raise money for the homeless community that we serve, while appreciating the rich arts, culture and food institutions that make L.A., L.A.," the L.A. Mission said. "Food is a core foundation of how we support those in need, and we hope this project connects those who have made their mark with those that need the most help."

According to the L.A. Mission, Do It For LA will be a yearlong project. So far, the collaboration has raised over $10,000 as of January 26.

La Poubelle has been open about their pandemic-related struggles thus far. The restaurant was unable to sustain itself solely through takeout and delivery, and launched a GoFundMe in December soon after outdoor dining was paused by the county.

"We've always been able to adapt to changing and challenging times," owner Francoise Koster said. "But this time is different. Takeout/delivery is not a sustainable solution for us. Our employees are jobless once again with great uncertainty; our bills are mounting and the hole in my heart is growing. We are humbly asking for your assistance with the hope to be able to cover operating expenses until there is relief from the government and/or changes to the current environment."

So far, 852 donors have raised $73,320 toward the GoFundMe. The restaurant has not yet said if they plan to reopen on Friday, when outdoor dining is allowed to resume in Los Angeles County.

Of course, the pandemic-related issues are not unique to La Poubelle. Elsewhere in Hollywood, The Standard announced they would be forced to close after 22 years due to a "significant rent increase."

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