Carmello’s of Historic Manassas, Virginia, got to make special holiday memories with more than 35 BARN Community Housing residents of Bristow when they dropped off Christmas dinner for the 12 BARN families. Meals included tortellini crema rosa with a variety of salads and desserts.

BARN Community Housing of Bristow, Va. opened its doors to families facing homelessness in 1997. A 501(c)3 secular non-profit, BARN provides clean, safe housing for families in need of a helping hand.  Started by the Benedictine Sisters of Virginia, BARN is located on the monastery grounds. BARN is about helping families overcome the obstacles—emotional and financial—empowering these individuals to trust in their own abilities and strive to be the best version of themselves.

“Partnering with BARN was truly one of the highlights of our holidays,” says Alice Pires, owner of Carmello’s and Monza of Historic Manassas, Virginia. “Knowing that we could help bring some holiday spirit to others was memorable for our entire Carmello’s team,” Pires says.

Carmello’s of Historic Manassas, Virginia, was established in 1987 and is owned by Portuguese immigrant, Alice Pires. The family-owned restaurant offers fine dining, serving a contemporary American cuisine with Portuguese and Mediterranean influence. In 2011, their sister restaurant, Monza, was created, providing bistro fare. Carmello’s earned the Award of Excellence by Wine Spectator magazine for seven consecutive years, and has been voted best fining dining restaurant by Prince William Today for 2013. Their seasonal menus are complemented by their fresh produce from the restaurant’s garden. Carmello’s and Monza are active volunteers in its community, uniting with local charities to help those in need and to build community spirit.