HummusTown: A Culinary Refuge for Migrants in Rome
- A pair of Syrian expatriates in Rome have established a community initiative to assist migrants and those in need.
- Their approach involves sharing traditional Syrian cuisine, particularly hummus, to foster cultural connections.
- This philanthropic endeavor highlights the resilience and compassion of the Syrian community amidst their own struggles.
Founded in 2018, HummusTown began as a humanitarian catering service aimed at supporting families affected by the Syrian war. Shaza Saker, a former U.N. employee, and her cook, Joumana Farho, initiated the project by hosting dinners in Saker's home, with proceeds directed to Syria. The initiative has since evolved into a thriving small business, employing 13 full-time and 10 part-time staff at a kiosk and bistro near Rome's train station, with plans for further expansion. As the Syrian conflict continued, HummusTown shifted its focus to assist new migrants in Italy, fostering integration and community support. Each month, the organization donates food to the homeless and raised €40,000 for earthquake victims in Syria in 2023. Saker, while managing her business and supporting her daughter in Italy, expresses concern for her five children in Gaza, highlighting their struggles with basic necessities like water. Fadi Salem, a Syrian refugee and current manager of HummusTown, arrived in Rome in 2022 after years in Lebanon. He discovered the organization through the local Syrian community and found a sense of belonging. Salem emphasizes the importance of HummusTown in his integration process, stating that it has provided him with opportunities to practice Italian, English, and Arabic while connecting with both Italian and foreign clients. Through its culinary offerings, HummusTown not only serves delicious food but also builds a supportive community for migrants and vulnerable individuals in Rome, showcasing the resilience and solidarity of those affected by conflict.