Restaurants Offer Free Thanksgiving Meals Amid Community Struggles

UPDATE: Local restaurants in Waukegan and North Chicago are stepping up to provide free Thanksgiving meals on November 23, 2023, in a heartfelt effort to support the community during challenging times. Big Ed’s BBQ is leading the initiative with its annual feast, offering both a drive-through option and a communal dining experience for those seeking connection.

Big Ed’s BBQ will serve free meals from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM on Thanksgiving Day. Diners can choose to either enjoy their meals seated at long tables or pick up their meals via drive-through, marking a significant shift in community engagement since the restaurant’s relocation to a larger venue. Owner Ed Nero emphasizes the importance of togetherness at this time of year, stating, “No one should feel alone.”

The sit-down meal allows patrons to enjoy turkey, ham, cornbread, and an array of sides including macaroni and cheese and collard greens, all while fostering conversation and connection. With seating for 150 people at a time, this initiative aims to provide not just food, but a sense of community.

In addition, Juan’s Chuck Wagon will offer free Thanksgiving dinners on the same day from 10:00 AM to 1:30 PM, serving a traditional menu that includes turkey, stuffing, and an assortment of pies. Owner Juan Retana highlights the significance of this year’s event, stating, “A lot of people are scared. We want to help the community get back to normal.”

Furthermore, Eleven19 Kitchen & Cocktails will provide free meals to the homeless from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, followed by 50% off meals for military personnel and community service workers from 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Owner Michael Coleman noted that the earlier meal will have a one-plate limit featuring chicken, catfish, and cornbread.

These initiatives come amid heightened stress in the community due to recent federal immigration enforcement presence, which has impacted local businesses and residents. Both mayors of Waukegan and North Chicago, Sam Cunningham and Leon Rockingham Jr., expressed gratitude for the restaurants’ generosity, emphasizing the need for community support during these difficult times.

“Our generosity reminds us what the holiday season is all about,” Cunningham remarked. He added that this Thanksgiving is especially crucial for fostering unity in the face of adversity.

Nero and Retana have mobilized over 150 volunteers to support these efforts, ensuring that everyone feels welcomed. With this being the 10th year of Big Ed’s Thanksgiving dinner, Nero reflects, “This is our way of giving back to the community, which has supported us for the past 18 years.”

As the holiday approaches, these local restaurants are not just feeding individuals but also nurturing a sense of belonging and hope. The meals are a reminder of community resilience, especially in a year marked by uncertainty.

For those wishing to join, Big Ed’s BBQ encourages walk-ins for indoor dining and provides directions for drive-through pick-up. Meals at Juan’s Chuck Wagon and Eleven19 Kitchen & Cocktails are also designed to ensure that everyone can partake in the holiday spirit.

This Thanksgiving, as residents gather around shared tables or pick up meals to take home, the focus remains on unity, support, and gratitude within the community.