Restaurants Provide More Than Food Sometimes

Worldwide, a significant issue in society is becoming more apparent daily—homelessness. At this point, an estimated 100 million people struggle with homelessness, and an additional 1.6 billion lack adequate housing, according to the United Nations. Sadly, with growing house prices and stagnant wages, an increasing number of people are facing these issues. 

Specifically, New York City, NY, faces extreme homelessness across the boroughs. At the beginning of 2026, Coalition for the Homeless estimated that 100,152 people slept in NYC shelters, and thousands more were left to sleep on the streets. Since the Great Depression in the 1930s, homelessness has overwhelmed big cities, especially in the United States, and New York City is not the exception. However, instead of letting these barriers regress communities, some individuals take it upon themselves to lift those around them. 

In one instance, a business owner has made it his mission to provide support to his local unhoused individuals. Based out of Midtown Manhattan, the owner of Ali Baba Mediterranean Cuisine, Ali Riza Dogan, has contributed substantially to the community. Every Wednesday, after his restaurant closes, Ali and a team take a car full of homemade food to Chinatown, which can be a 20-to 40-minute drive. Once they arrive, they begin setting up a station for food handouts. 

This tradition did not start recently, though. For over six years now, the workers of Ali Baba Mediterranean have made it a part of their routine, regardless of the conditions. To them, it does not matter if it is raining or snowing; what matters most is serving the community. 

The team’s efforts do not end there, as the restaurant itself also acts as an oasis for the unhoused in Manhattan. During the coldest nights, which New York City often has, the doors of Ali Baba Mediterranean open as a shelter. With the heater running, and a posted sign that reads, “You can stay inside. The heat is on overnight,” the restaurant provides a safe place for those overnight. As someone who has faced homelessness before, Ali knows the unfortunate side of the situation firsthand, so instead of letting those around him grapple with their life, he tries his best to support them.

Ultimately, the tasks of Ali and his team at Ali Baba Mediterranean encompass much more than a simple kabob. By keeping a standard, one that is made for all individuals, especially those who struggle, they serve the community as a whole, not as customers or unhoused individuals. Through this, the team breaks down barriers that persist in society. Now, by sharing these stories on social media, Ali fosters inclusion beyond the New York City limits. He hopes to continue these efforts for many years to come, so that everyone can see the importance of local advocacy.