The Commercial Real Estate Alpha Site

Darwins making an impact on the Homeless Community

by Sean Dreznin

Darwin Santa Maria is the owner of Darwin’s restaurant and brewery.  He was recently conflicted with the issue of homelessness affecting his business, customers and surrounding neighborhood.  His restaurant is located on 4th St just off of Lemon Ave in the Rosemary District.

“My new homeless friends Ricky and Brent cleaning Kumquat Court Downtown Sarasota! 2015 making a difference — at Darwin’s on 4th.”  Picture by DSM

Knowing Darwin, he always accepts a challenge and never backs down from an obstacle.

Fast forward approx. a week and Darwin has taken it upon himself and his staff to put some of the homeless to work!

“Getting to know my homeless neighbors Richard & Dorothy.. Richard will clean today the restaurant hoods and Dorothy will clean outside the restaurant! 2015 making a difference — at Darwin’s on 4th.”