TIMES PURWAKARTA, JAKARTA – Warung Indonesia, the beloved traditional eatery, is not just about serving delicious meals but also about making a positive impact on the community. Just like what Warung Peduli of Probolinggo did on every Friday.
These humble local businesses often find creative and heartwarming ways to give back, proving that kindness knows no boundaries. Warung Peduli providing a super affordable meals to those in need on the designated day.
Every Friday morning this warung opens at 7 a.m., a swarm of customers descends upon it. The line stretches up to 100 people, extending towards the east of Warung Peduli. The star of the show on these mornings is nasi pecel.
Bambang, one of the initiators of Warung Peduli, explains that this impromptu blessed Friday warung was formed through the agreement of the Community Forum of Mosque Fellowship (Forsijama). Their goal is simple yet impactful: to provide affordable breakfast every Friday.
Located on Jl. KH. Mansyur, west of Probolinggo Station, or the north intersection of Raudlatul Jannah Grand Mosque, this pop-up warung has been in operation for 15 months.
Initially funded by donations the mosque get, this warung prepare meals for the less fortunate within super affordable price, around IDR 3 K/pax. Which is way approachable in cost compared to the normal price in common warung..
For your information, a set of dish in common warung wil price around IDR 15-20 K. Just the same price of half gallon of gasoline. "We had different menu each Friday. Sometimes its bakmoy, pecel, rawon, and many more," Bambang said.
The money will be used back to provided another cheap meal with fancy taste added with the number of donations they get in a week. What more interesting is that the warung appointed to serve the dish will different each week.
The warung owner will also get their share and a free promotions about their place. Lots of people will comeback for their food if they give the best taste.
"I thought it was given in a very small portion like those Nasi Kucing (cat portion meals). Yet, it was splendid. And that it why I alway s look for this moment to get a good meal in super affordable price," Sulaiman, a local citizen said. Another impactful way Warung Indonesia contributes is by supporting local farmers and producers. Many of these eateries prioritize sourcing their ingredients locally, boosting the regional economy.
By doing so, they not only ensure the freshness and quality of their dishes but also create a ripple effect of economic blessings within the community.
In times of crisis, Warung Indonesia often steps up to support relief efforts. Whether it's providing free meals during natural disasters or contributing a percentage of their profits to charitable causes, these small businesses play a significant role in helping communities get back on their feet.
Some Warung Indonesias take their community support a step further by organizing skill-building workshops and mentorship programs. These initiatives aim to empower local residents, offering them opportunities to learn new skills that can enhance their employability and overall quality of life.
Warung Peduli not only nourishes the community but also provides crucial support to local businesses during slow periods, creating a harmonious cycle of support and charity in Probolinggo. (*)
Pewarta | : Khodijah Siti |
Editor | : Khodijah Siti |