Locals and college students alike all have loved Shortstop Deli since 1978. While the business is an institution in this town, it came under new ownership 4.5 years ago when Chuck Dong, who has worked there since he was 19, purchased the business from Albert and Cindy Smith who originally founded the business. This means that SS is currently facing this pandemic in the same position as a new business.

Locally owned and operated, SS consistently makes awesome food, with friendly staff and a real sense of community. Do you have fond memories of indulging in a Hot Truck Pizza sub on a late night? Do you enjoy the best deli subs in Ithaca? Do you spend summers on the lake and love grabbing the best subs before you head out?

Whatever your reason or memory, Shortstop Deli has been an institution in Ithaca since 1978. They provide amazing food and support the community. Aside from famous fresh made Deli Sandwiches and Hot Truck pizza subs, they have always made sure to stock essential groceries as a local grocery source within walking distance in the community, and they accept EBT programs. They have always been here sponsoring local teams, charities, supporting and donating to the community.

COVID-19 has hit this business hard. Serving area Colleges and Universities such as Cornell University and Ithaca College, is a big part of Shortstop's revenue. With campuses shut downs and distance learning, that revenue has no longer been there.

Couple that with the community at large working remotely in their homes, the SS customer base as dwindled immensely during the pandemic. And as the pandemic continues into the winter months, sustainability is now uncertain. So like so many small local businesses, they need our support now more than ever!

To help Shortstop Deli make it through the pandemic storm and ensure sustainability, we have created two options:

1. Contact Chuck ([email protected]) and purchase SS gifts cards. They can be mailed to you, picked up at the store or if you choose donated to those in the Ithaca community. The purchase will immediately benefit the store in meeting current financial pressures. If you choose to donate you gift card it will be sent to local charities in the Ithaca community, to get to families in need.
2. You can make a direct contribution through this fund raiser page. No amount is to small.

Lets keep this local Intuition going and get them through to the other side of the pandemic. Thank you for your support.