Industry rallies to support Pulse victims

Bars and spirits brands have pulled together in the wake of the Pulse nightclub shooting in Orlando, raising funds for a GoFundMe campaign set up to help those affected by the tragic events.

The spirits industry has rallied together to raise funds for the victims of the Pulse nightclub shooting in Orlando

Around 02:00 local time on Sunday 12 June, a gunman opened fire at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida, killing at least 49 people and injuring dozens others before being shot dead by the police.

The attack targeting the LGBT+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and more) community was the worst mass shooting in US history.

In the wake of the attack, Equality Florida set up a GoFundMe page in order to “support every single victim of the horrific shooting at Orlando’s Pulse nightclub. This includes victims’ families, survivors, and those in the club who may not have suffered physical injury but in need of support.”

The page has already raised more than US$5 million from more than 100,000 contributors around the world.

Tito Beveridge, founder and distiller of Tito’s Handmade Vodka, has committed to matching donations up to US$25,000.

Those wishing to make a donation at the GoFundMe page must type “Tito’s Match” in the comment field to ensure the company doubles the sum.

“All of our family here at Tito’s Handmade Vodka are heartbroken over the cowardly act that occurred at Pulse nightclub,” said Amy Lukken, head of the philanthropic arm at Tito’s Handmade Vodka.

“We are responding the only way our family, friends, and fans know how to and that is with love. We desire a world free of hate for all mankind and will continue to support our LGBTQ families. We are making a contribution to Equality Florida and are asking you to join us in donating to them as well.”

Meanwhile New York bar Añejo has created a new cocktail, Añejo Pulse, in tribute to the victims of the Orlando attack.

Developed by James Horn for Añejo, the US$13 cocktail comprises 1.5 oz Herradura Silver, 0.75 oz Thai basil syrup, 1oz lime, and 0.75 oz Market blueberry puree. To create, build with ice, shake and strain over fresh ice in a rocks glass, and then garnish with rainbow salt rim and basil sprig.

For each cocktail sold through the month of June, US$3 will be donated to the campaign.

“This cause is naturally close to the hearts of the Añejo team; many of their guests and staff are from the LGBT community and they found it imperative to show their support,” a press statement reads.

Orlando’s local hospitality industry has collectively rallied together, with more than 20 bars and restaurants offering guests fundraising menus or pledging to donate proceeds and profits. See Orlandoweekly.com for the full list.