In the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, which struck nearly a year ago, the island of Puerto Rico needs aid to rebuild the businesses, roads, and homes that were destroyed by the vicious storm. Local organizers and impromptu activists chef Molly Barnes and Jake Lindgren are determined to help.

Lindgren and Barnes were stirred to help Puerto Rico due to family and friendship ties to the island nation. They will be hosting their second fundraiser for Puerto Rico’s hurricane relief fund on Aug. 18 from 6-9pm at Forage, a local pop-up collaborative culinary space in Banbury Place.

The first fundraiser, a pasteles pop-up in July, completely sold out. Festival Puertorriqueño is a ticketed event where traditional Puerto Rican food will be sold to benefit the Hispanic Federation, a relief organization that focuses on causes that directly affect Hispanic people around the world. The menu include surrulitos (corn fritters), tostones (fried plantain) guava paste with fresh white cheese, asopao de gandules, piñon (Puerto Rican “lasagna”) with rice and beans, flan, and tembleque.

There will also be a cash bar at Forage serving wine, beer, and cocktails. Tickets for the event are $50 each. All proceeds from this event will go directly to help the people of Puerto Rico as they rebuild their communities.

Festival Puertorriqueño – a Puerto Rico hurricane relief fundraiser at Forage • Aug. 18, 6-9pm • 930 Galloway St., Building 13, Suite 212 • $50 each • Tickets »