After the recent passage of a cigarette tax to help fund schools, and the termination of teachers’ union contracts by the SRC, a Philadelphia chain restaurant is hoping to help students in need.

Chickie’s and Pete’s is fundraising for City Year, an nonprofit organization that puts recent college graduates in Philadelphia high schools to work with students. The City Year Americorps members help students to graduate on time by providing them with academic and emotional support.

“Our goal in this city, is to reduce the dropout rate,” said Chickie’s and Pete’s CEO, Pete Ciarrocchi. “As a lifelong Philadelphian and graduate of Northeast High School, this initiative is very close to my heart. We all know Philadelphia public schools are in dire need of additional resources, and City Year’s dedicated corps members are doing amazing work to provide much needed support to schools of all types in Philadelphia. We are proud to support this outstanding organization and provide better educational outcomes for our children.”

Customers can donate by including it in their check during their meal, texting SCHOOL to 20222 to make an automatic payment of $5 or $10, or donating online during the month-long fundraiser.

“On behalf of the board, staff and corps members of City Year, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Pete Ciarrocchi and Chickie’s and Pete’s restaurants for this wonderful opportunity,” said Ric Ramsey, executive director of City Year Philadelphia. “Supporting City Year’s work in Philadelphia’s schools allows us to provide one-on-one support for students, support teachers in their classrooms, and lead valuable before and after-school programs."

Each Chickie’s and Pete’s PA locations will also hold a fundraiser night on Oct. 27, where guests can donate 10 percent of their meal to City Year by printing a coupon and bringing it to the restaurant.