WILLIAMSBURG — A GoFundMe has been launched to help support the employees of Rocco’s Smokehouse Grill after an Aug. 12 fire closed the restaurant until further notice.
The GoFundMe was started by Debi Schaefer. While no one was hurt during the fire, which was caused by a piece of equipment, smoke damage has necessitated the complete reconstruction of the restaurant’s interior.
“It’s not about me,” Rocco Colafrancesco, the owner of Rocco’s Smokehouse Grill, said about the GoFundMe during the reconstruction. “It’s about making sure [our employees] are taken care of during this time, because we’re not sure exactly how long it’s going to take.”
While the fire itself didn’t do much damage, due to smoke damage, every wall needs to be taken out, as well as every piece of the ceiling. The flooring in the dining room also needs to be replaced. Insurance has approved what is necessary for repairs. Rocco’s and its landlord are also incorporating some design changes, but hope to be open as soon as possible.
In the meantime, the restaurant says it is planning on holding some outdoor events in the parking lot using its smokers, and also plans to work with a local charity, where, for a small donation, people will be able to eat.
“I really do appreciate the love [the community] is showing for [the employees] because they’re the ones who are going to struggle a little more than I will,” Colafrancesco said about the GoFundMe. “Trust me, they’ll keep me busy doing something. I’ll always be doing something, but I really want to look out for them. They mean the most to me after my family, because they are my extended family.”
Rocco’s will be resuming catering for off-site, as well as tailgates for William & Mary football alumni in September to keep themselves busy.
As of Aug. 19, the GoFundMe has raised $4,525 toward a goal of $35,000. To donate, visit the official GoFundMe page and visit Rocco’s official website for updates.
