Local Restaurants Offer Free Thanksgiving Dinners to Community

UPDATE: Local restaurants in Waukegan and North Chicago are stepping up to offer free Thanksgiving dinners to the community, featuring heartfelt initiatives aimed at fostering togetherness during these challenging times.

Big Ed’s BBQ will host its annual free Thanksgiving meal on November 23, 2023, from noon to 4 p.m. Guests can choose to either enjoy a sit-down dinner at a long table or opt for the drive-through service. This year marks a significant change as the restaurant, now located in a former banquet hall with over five times the space, encourages community members to gather and share a meal.

Owner Ed Nero emphasizes the importance of connection during the holidays. “No one should feel alone,” he stated. The sit-down experience aims to provide more than just a meal; it’s about fostering conversations and companionship.

Alongside Big Ed’s, Juan’s Chuck Wagon will serve free Thanksgiving dinners from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on the same day, providing a hearty feast of turkey, stuffing, and desserts to everyone who walks through their doors. Meanwhile, Eleven19 Kitchen & Cocktails will cater to the homeless from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and will offer military personnel and community workers a 50% discount from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m.

This initiative comes as local businesses face challenges due to increased federal immigration enforcement, which has affected the community’s morale. Both Nero and Juan Retana, owner of Juan’s Chuck Wagon, hope these meals will help uplift spirits. “It has been a difficult year for so many,” said Waukegan Mayor Sam Cunningham, expressing gratitude for the local restaurants’ generosity.

The volunteers, over 150 strong, are ready to assist in serving traditional holiday fare, including turkey, ham, and a variety of sides such as macaroni and cheese, collard greens, and cranberry sauce. Those dining in will be seated and served, while those taking food home will receive it directly from volunteers as they circle the restaurant.

Nero, reflecting on this initiative, shared, “This is our way of giving back to the community, which has supported us for the past 18 years.” He noted that this year is particularly significant as both restaurants strive to bring joy to those who may be feeling isolated or anxious.

Retana echoed these sentiments, recalling how his father began the Thanksgiving tradition nearly three decades ago. “A lot of people are scared. We want to help the community get back to normal,” he said.

As Thanksgiving approaches, the message is clear: community spirit and generosity are more vital than ever. With an urgent call for unity, these local restaurants are committed to ensuring that no one in Waukegan or North Chicago spends the holiday alone.

Residents are encouraged to spread the word and share this opportunity to gather, eat, and celebrate together. This Thanksgiving, let’s remember what the holiday season is truly about: coming together as a community.