A GoFundMe page has been set up to help a Tioga County business stay open.
According to the page, the owners of the Richford Diner had their kitchen hood system grandfathered in and approved by inspectors and insurance, when they opened last year.
Now, the owners are saying the insurance company said they will no longer provide coverage until a new $50,000 hood system is installed.
The owners are asking the community to pitch in to help keep the diner open. The goal is currently $4,000 and so far they have raised over $3,200.
To donate, click here.
Here is the info from the GoFundMe page:
Less than a year ago, we took a leap of faith and opened our diner with one goal in mind: to create a place where the community could come together over good food, good conversation, and familiar faces.
From early mornings with coffee regulars to busy lunch rushes and families gathering around our tables — you’ve made this more than a business. You’ve made it home.
But now, we’re facing something we never saw coming.
When we opened, our kitchen hood system was grandfathered in, approved at the time by inspectors, insured by our insurance company, and accepted by our bank. We did everything by the book.
Recently, our insurance company informed us they will no longer cover us unless we install a brand new hood system — a cost of $50,000.
Without insurance, we cannot operate. And without this upgrade, we risk losing everything we’ve worked so hard to build.
We’ve explored every option — financing, loans, cutting costs — but as a new small business, this unexpected expense is something we simply can’t take on alone.
So we’re turning to the people who made this place what it is: you.
If this diner has ever:
Served you a great meal
Given you a place to unwind
Been part of your routine
Made you feel like family
We’re asking for your help to keep it going.
Every single dollar brings us closer to staying open and continuing to serve this community we love.
If you can donate, share, or even just spread the word — it truly means everything to us.
This isn’t just about saving a diner.
It’s about holding onto a place that belongs to all of us.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for being part of our story. ❤️
— The Richford Diner Family
