RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Richmond Restaurant Week kicked off its 24th year on Monday, offering local diners a chance to enjoy meal deals while supporting a greater cause -- something that organizers find even more important as the government shutdown continues.

"I love this week -- the energy is just electrifying," said Aline Reitzer, founder of Richmond Restaurant Week and co-owner of Acacia Midtown. "It's just so nice to see the support."

The semiannual event brings together 27 local restaurants, each offering a three-course meal at a fixed price of $35.25. For each meal sold, $5.25 goes to Feed More, a nonprofit focused on fighting hunger in Central Virginia.

"Richmond is a very charitable city," Reitzer said.

Beyond the deals and dining, organizers said the event serves a deeper purp

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