Marissa Hermer, a renowned restaurateur and former star of “Ladies of London,” embodies resilience and compassion amidst adversity. Recently impacted by the catastrophic wildfires in the Greater Los Angeles area, Hermer was compelled to evacuate her Pacific Palisades home. Amid this chaos, she reflects on the harrowing experience of having to quickly decide which belongings to save, underscoring the unexpected nature of such disasters.
Despite the uncertainty about the status of her French brasserie, The Draycott, Hermer swiftly channeled her energies into a meaningful initiative to assist those affected by the fires. Under the banner “YOU GIVE. WE COOK. THEY EAT.”, she launched a food delivery service dedicated to providing warm meals to displaced families, firefighters, and frontline workers. This initiative began during the COVID-19 pandemic and continues to offer support in times of need.
Operating out of her other establishments, Chez Mia and Olivetta in West Hollywood, Hermer and her team prepare nourishing meals consisting of bread, salad, and pasta. Her proactive approach not only meets the immediate needs of her community but also brings comfort during uncertain times. Hermer’s initiative has successfully raised over $50,000, demonstrating the power of community support and the impact of collective efforts.
Hermer’s outreach extends through social media platforms where families in need can directly request meals. This system also allows the community to nominate others who might be hesitant to ask for help themselves, ensuring that those in need receive necessary support without having to overcome the barrier of asking.
Reflecting on the broader significance of community, Hermer emphasizes that true community transcends physical spaces like post offices and coffee shops. It’s about the connections and togetherness that emerge during challenging times. Even as she faces personal losses, such as her children’s school and the uncertainty of her home’s survival, Hermer remains committed to aiding others.
Hermer’s story is a poignant reminder of human strength and the capacity to foster hope and renewal in the face of devastating challenges. Through her actions, she not only provides meals but also stitches the fabric of her community tighter, offering warmth and solidarity when it’s needed most.
