This $20K could be better used

Re: Ottawa's Atelier restaurant wants to ring out 2022 with a private, $20,000 dinner for four, Dec. 5.

Peter Hum's article left me wondering how Atelier restaurant's chef/owner thought that his decision to offer such an extravagant meal proposal would resonate with families who are struggling to put food on their tables while attempting to find the funds for everything else.

While undoubtedly Marc Lepine and those who might take him up on his offer support many worthy causes, perhaps they might consider paying forward the cost of preparing and consuming this meal to the food banks, the Ottawa Mission and the many other local organizations that would be delighted to receive a $20,000 donation.

Bill Windeler, Orléans

Please donate the restaurant profits

My only hopes are that Atelier and Marc Lepine will donate the profits to the Ottawa Food Bank. Patrons thinking of attending this should also think about what the Ottawa Food Bank could do with $20,000 this holiday season.

For many Ottawans, going out on New Year's Eve, even to Mcdonald's, is not a family option.

The Snowsuit Fund also needs 16,000 snowsuits and Toy Mountain has a demand for 25,000 unopened gifts. Are truffles that important? I think not.

Kevin Farrell, Ottawa

A terrible idea when people are struggling

Really? At a time when food prices are so high that families are skipping meals and food banks are overwhelmed? Why not ask those four for whom “money is no object” to direct their funds where it's really needed and give your staff a paid night off ?

Judy Bernstein, Ottawa

Offering $20K meal profoundly tone deaf

Upon reading about the proposed dinner for four costing $20,000, to be served at Atelier, I was at first outraged, but upon reflection am now just saddened.

At a time of the year when compassion and caring for others is a paramount value, and during a time when many families are struggling with rising food costs, this is surely profoundly tonedeaf. Perhaps Atelier should be encouraged to donate the entire proceeds ($20,000) to the Ottawa Food Bank (or auction the seating to the highest bidder to give to a Christmas charity) to help ensure a more joyous Christmas for parents and children who cannot afford even a modest celebration together.

John Walker, Ottawa

JULIE GORDON/REUTERS FILES Volunteers sort through donated food at the Ottawa Food Bank warehouse. Instead of spending thousands on a good meal, letter writers suggest redirecting the money to those in need.