Hummus of Hope: Syrian Migrants Empowering Their Community in Rome

HummusTown, founded by Syrian migrants Shaza Saker and Joumana Farho, began in 2018 as a humanitarian catering service in Rome. The initiative now helps both Syrian asylum-seekers and vulnerable Italians integrate and includes a kitchen kiosk, cultural events, and charity work, steadily gaining popularity on Rome's culinary scene.

In Rome, two Syrians have created 'HummusTown,' a community initiative that supports migrants and vulnerable people by sharing flavors from their war-torn homeland.

Founded in 2018 as a humanitarian catering service, HummusTown initially aimed to raise funds for Syrian families and friends. It has since evolved into a small business helping new migrants integrate, gaining a following on Rome's gastronomic landscape.

Long-time UN employee Shaza Saker and cook Joumana Farho founded the initiative. Initially, they hosted dinners to raise money, turning Saker's house into a home restaurant. Today, HummusTown employs 23 staff and organizes cultural events, cooking classes, and catering, while also donating to causes like homelessness and earthquake relief in Syria.

The focus has expanded to supporting all vulnerable people, including Italians. Stories like that of Fadi Salem, a Syrian refugee who found a family in HummusTown, highlight how the initiative fosters integration and community.

(With inputs from agencies.)