HummusTown, a community-focused initiative started by two Syrians in Rome, has evolved from a fundraising effort for families in war-torn Syria to a successful small business that supports migrants and vulnerable people in Italy. Shaza Saker and Joumana Farho began the project in 2018 as a humanitarian catering service, using the proceeds to send funds back to their homeland. However, as the Syrian conflict persisted, they shifted their focus to helping new migrants integrate into Italian society.
With an initial crowdfunding of 45,000 euros, HummusTown now employs 13 full-time and 10 part-time staff at their kitchen kiosk and bistro near Rome’s train station, with plans to open a restaurant. The organization has expanded its activities to include cooking classes, cultural events, summer aperitifs, and catering for various events in the city. Additionally, they donate food to the homeless monthly and have raised 40,000 euros for victims of the recent earthquakes in Syria.
While their primary focus is on providing support to Syrian asylum-seekers, HummusTown has expanded its mission to assist all vulnerable people, including Italians in need. One such beneficiary is Mayyada al-Amrani, a Palestinian woman who fled Gaza with her daughter for cancer treatment. She now works alongside other Syrian and Palestinian cooks, rolling traditional spiced rice into grape leaves to earn money to support herself in Italy. Despite her struggles, she remains concerned for her other children in Gaza, who face challenges such as lack of water.
Fadi Salem, a Syrian refugee from Damascus and now HummusTown’s manager, found a sense of belonging and integration within the community initiative. He speaks with Italian and foreign clients daily, allowing him to practice his Italian, English, and Arabic language skills while connecting with others. Salem emphasizes the importance of finding integration through meaningful work and community engagement, rather than solely relying on migration centers for support.
Through their commitment to providing employment opportunities, support, and a sense of community to migrants and vulnerable individuals, HummusTown has become a beacon of hope and solidarity in Rome. By leveraging their culinary expertise and passion for helping others, Shaza Saker, Joumana Farho, and their team have created a thriving business that not only sustains them financially but also enriches the lives of those they serve. As they continue to expand their reach and impact, HummusTown stands as a shining example of how food, culture, and compassion can unite people across borders and backgrounds.
