UPDATE: Local restaurants in Waukegan and North Chicago are gearing up to offer free Thanksgiving meals this year, responding to community needs amid increasing stress and hardship. Starting on November 23, 2023, residents can enjoy a warm meal and companionship, signifying the true spirit of the holiday.
Big Ed’s BBQ will serve free Thanksgiving dinners from noon to 4 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day, inviting guests to dine in or use the drive-through. Owner Ed Nero emphasizes the importance of communal dining, stating, “No one should feel alone.” With over 150 volunteers assisting, the restaurant aims to make this year’s festivities more inclusive by allowing people to share a meal at long tables, fostering connection during these challenging times.
Joining Big Ed’s are Juan’s Chuck Wagon and Eleven19 Kitchen & Cocktails, both committed to serving free meals as well. Juan’s will be open from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., offering classic Thanksgiving dishes including turkey and pie. Meanwhile, Eleven19 will provide free meals to the homeless between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. and offer 50% off to military and frontline workers from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m.
The urgency of these meals comes in light of the community’s struggles, particularly following intensified local enforcement efforts. Mayor Sam Cunningham expressed gratitude for the local restaurants stepping up, stating, “Their generosity reminds us what the holiday season is all about.” North Chicago Mayor Leon Rockingham Jr. echoed this sentiment, underscoring the need for unity during trying times.
At Big Ed’s, the menu features turkey, ham, cornbread, and an array of sides, with an emphasis on serving everyone—whether dining in or taking out. For those opting for takeout, staff will guide cars through the restaurant to ensure a smooth process.
The Thanksgiving initiative is not just about food; it’s about bringing the community together. Both Nero and Juan Retana of Juan’s Chuck Wagon highlight the significance of connection during the holidays. Retana noted, “This year has been rough. A lot of people are scared. We want to help the community get back to normal.”
This year’s Thanksgiving meals are especially poignant as they mark 10 years of Big Ed’s community service and nearly 30 years since Juan’s Chuck Wagon first opened its doors with a similar mission. As the holiday approaches, these restaurants are poised to provide not just nourishment but a sense of belonging.
Residents are encouraged to participate in these heartfelt efforts, whether by dining in, taking meals home, or volunteering. The atmosphere promises warmth, connection, and a reminder that, especially in difficult times, community support is vital.
Next Steps: Community members are urged to arrive early to ensure they receive their meals and to be part of this uplifting experience. With a focus on togetherness, this Thanksgiving is set to be a memorable one for all involved.
