ReThink yesterday launched the Feed the Need for Happiness initiative by feeding between 50 and 100 Port-of-Spain street dwellers and hungry individuals with wholesome restaurant food that would have otherwise been discarded.
The idea, conceptualised by Ernie Ross, of Ross Advertising Ltd, is a way of meeting the needs of many who go hungry everyday, through a novel way practised in several parts of the world.
Yesterday, at 4.30 pm, the programme was launched in commemoration of United Nations International Day of Happiness, which is observed around the world on March 20.
A dozen employees of Ross Advertising distributed the food to the homeless and individuals in the capital city.
The meals packed in boxes by the restaurants were picked up by vans.
Executive creator/director of Ross Advertising, Marvin Imamshah, said six downtown restaurants have come on board to feed people in need of a meal.
Among them are Soho, El Pecos, Denny’s, Texas de Brazil and RuStreet.
Guardian Media Ltd has also agreed to publicise the initiative in the Trinidad Guardian, its radio stations and on CNC3.
Imamshah said they are optimistic that other restaurants, as well as supermarkets and food suppliers, will partner with them in a bid to expand the programme.
So far, Living Waters and Kids In Need of Direction (KIND) have agreed to give a helping hand.