Rosie’s Gaming Emporium donating 20,000 meals to essential personnel

At left, New Kent Director of Economic Development Matthew Smolnik carries boxes of pizza to shuttle to emergency workers as part of Rosie’s Gaming Emporium’s goal to serve 20,000 meals during the Coronavirus pandemic. Several works have dedicated time and effort to make sure all essential personnel are fed, including security office Carroll Williams (right) filling bags full of drinks for distribution.

Robb Johnson photos

With the ongoing pandemic of Coronavirus continuing to sweep through Virginia, emergency workers and healthcare personnel are on the front lines of the action in attempts to contain the spread and help those who have been affected by it. As those people make an effort to help those in need, one New Kent business is providing food to the most essential workers.

Rosie’s Gaming Emporium at Colonial Downs has pledged to provide 20,000 “Grab-and-Go” meals to public safety, health care professionals, and all essential personnel. Locations for the pick-up include New Kent, Vinton, Hampton, and Richmond.

“We said that we would be community partners and we meant it,” said Rosie’s General Manager Stephanie Wisneski. “We want to do everything that we can, especially in a time of crisis. That means serving team members in the community, first responders, and anybody that needs assistance during this time.”

New Kent Director of Economic Development Matthew Smolnik commented that the partnership between the county and Rosie’s continue to shine bright despite the current situation.

“I think this is the underlining principle that we are going to take care of the community in good times and bad,” he said. “I have said it all along that they are our business partners and are our neighbors. This just further solidifies what they have said in the last two years and we are thankful and blessed to have them here in our community.”

Staff at Rosie’s will accept orders Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m.-7 p.m., with pick-up times being Tuesday through Saturday 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Orders must be placed one day in advance. To place an order, call 557-5444.