During this COVID-19 pandemic we’re seeing a lot of good coming from breweries that are able to help and give back to the community (I’ve started a list of Central Oregon ones here as well as starting to share more pandemic support stories), and 10 Barrel Brewing here in Bend is doing that with its #DrinkItForward program and a new beer for healthcare workers: Hero Beer.

Giving back to our local community has always been a priority for 10 Barrel. We started the Drink It Forward Program as a way for our Brew Pubs to support local charities through proceeds of their draft beer sales. Each quarter they have selected different charities to support and have even brewed collaboration beers as a way to spread the love and stay connected to our communities.

Since our brew pubs have recently reduced operations due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a portion of proceeds from all 10 Barrel products sold in each of our pub markets will benefit our localized Drink It Forward charity partners. Continuing our support for the communities that have supported us, through the good times and the bad.

That means with retail sales now also counting towards this charitable program, every dollar spent helps out the community.

10 Barrel also released Hero Beer, for the heroes in the community. From the email I got:

10 Barrel has also expanded the #DrinkItForward initiative with the launching of a new special series beer crafted specially for the heroes in our communities.

Introducing HERO BEER- A light lager inspired by the essential people keeping us safe, happy, and healthy during this scary time. Starting with Bend, then rolling out to all other pubs, 10 Barrel will be delivering HERO BEER to as many local heroes as they can.

The first HERO BEER deliveries (70+ cases) were dropped off to some of our local heroes in Bend this week including Les Schwab, Rebound Physical Therapy, Bend Garbage & Recycling, Home Depot, and a variety of local bike shops, humane societies, and veterinary clinics – with many more to come in the following weeks.

I have a feeling a lot of these heroes are appreciating having beer delivered right now. Keep it up!