Restaurants Offer Free Thanksgiving Dinners Amid Community Struggles

UPDATE: In a heartwarming initiative, local restaurants are stepping up to provide free Thanksgiving meals as community support becomes crucial. Big Ed’s BBQ in Waukegan will host its annual free Thanksgiving dinner on November 23, 2023, between noon and 4 p.m., offering both drive-through and sit-down options for diners.

This year, Big Ed’s BBQ owner Ed Nero is excited to welcome guests into his restaurant, which has expanded to accommodate more than five times its previous capacity. “We want to give people a chance to sit together and enjoy a meal, especially during this challenging time,” Nero stated. The restaurant aims to serve 150 people at a time, fostering community connection over a shared meal.

Joining Big Ed’s in this generous effort, Juan’s Chuck Wagon in Waukegan and Eleven19 Kitchen & Cocktails in North Chicago will also provide free Thanksgiving meals. Juan Retana, owner of Juan’s Chuck Wagon, announced that his restaurant will serve free Thanksgiving dinners from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., featuring traditional dishes such as turkey, stuffing, and pies.

Meanwhile, Eleven19 will cater to the homeless community with meals from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and offer 50% off for military personnel and community service members from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. “The holiday season is a special time for people to gather,” said North Chicago Mayor Leon Rockingham Jr., emphasizing the importance of community support during these trying times.

The initiative comes at a critical moment, with local businesses facing challenges after increased federal enforcement actions. “It has been a difficult year for so many,” said Waukegan Mayor Sam Cunningham. “Their generosity reminds us what the holiday season is all about.”

Big Ed’s BBQ anticipates a record turnout, with over 150 volunteers assisting in meal preparation and service. The menu will include turkey, ham, cornbread, and a variety of sides such as macaroni and cheese and collard greens. “This is our way of giving back to the community, which has supported us for the past 18 years,” Nero emphasized.

For those opting for take-out, the meal will be served in a convenient drive-through format. Volunteers will guide patrons as they circle the restaurant, ensuring a smooth and efficient process.

Retana reflected on the significance of the Thanksgiving meal, stating, “This year has been particularly rough with everything that’s happened. We want to help the community get back to normal.”

Both restaurants are committed to providing a warm, inviting atmosphere where no one has to feel alone this holiday season. “No one should feel alone,” Nero added. “They’ll sit together, eat, and have conversations.”

With the increasing need for community support, local restaurants are leading by example, making this Thanksgiving a time for joy, connection, and gratitude. As the holiday approaches, residents are encouraged to take part in these initiatives, reinforcing the spirit of togetherness that defines the season.