Several Tampa Bay restaurants are stepping up to support families after news that millions of Floridians could soon lose access to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.
Gigglewaters in Safety Harbor
Gigglewaters, a popular restaurant, bar, and screening room in Safety Harbor, announced plans to provide free lunches for children in need. Starting November 1, families can visit Gigglewaters (737 Main Street) and ask for a “GiggleBag.” Each bag includes a simple to-go meal — one for every child, no purchase necessary. The restaurant says it will continue the program “until SNAP is back” in Florida.
In a post on Facebook, the owners wrote, “We can’t fix everything. But we can offer a meal.”
Jack and Willie’s Tiki Bar in Oldsmar
Inspired by Gigglewaters’ example, Jack and Willie’s Bar Grill and Tiki (1013 Saint Petersburg Drive W, Oldsmar) announced it will also provide free kids’ meals to-go for as long as the SNAP shutdown continues. Families can request a “Jack’s Bag” for any child in need, no purchase required.
Chicken Salad Chick in Bradenton
The movement is spreading beyond Pinellas County. Chicken Salad Chick (5434 Lockwood Ridge Road, Bradenton)is offering free kids’ meals for children 12 and under, dine-in only, with no purchase necessary. The restaurant emphasized its commitment to community, stating, “Together, we can make a difference.”
These small acts of generosity are making a big impact during a challenging time for Florida families…