Macado’s, Gainsboro YMCA join forces again to feed Roanoke on ‘Giving Tuesday’

ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR) — Tuesday is nationally-known as “Giving Tuesday” which takes place the Tuesday after Thanksgiving each year and is a day to show the power of giving by people and organizations.

On Tuesday, Dec. 1, several organizations and many people gathered at the Gainsboro YMCA to hand out over 3,000 boxed meals made possible by Macado’s.

“Macado’s just really has a heart of feeding people in the community, so we got together and we decided we were going to have a huge event where we can serve the community, we can feed the community.”

Jonathan Pait – Executive Director – Gainsboro YMCA

“What was important to us and the YMCA is to, you know, help with food and also bridge the community.”

Richard Macher – Owner – Macado’s Restaurants

Back in May, Macado’s and the Gainsboro YMCA joined forces to help those in need at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“When we first did this the first time, it was like, just sitting there and worrying, you know and all the restaurants were shut-down, and you’re sitting there not knowing what tomorrow is going to bring.”

Richard Macher – Owner – Macado’s Restaurants

“We did this in May, it was a great success and we felt like – we just really wanted to do it again. So, here we are!”

Jonathan Pait – Executive Director – Gainsboro YMCA

Staff from Macado’s and the YMCA were on-site handing out the boxed meals, along with Roanoke City Police officers.

“This was not my idea – law enforcement, you know, partnering with the YMCA and Macado’s handing out the food to this community.”

Richard Macher – Owner – Macado’s Restaurants

The YMCA and Macado’s also put together an additional 1,000 boxed meals for teachers and faculty in the Roanoke City Public school system.

“This is such a great idea – not only to serve the community but also we’re serving Roanoke City Public School teachers. We’re feeding them. And you know they’re really going through a lot.”

Jonathan Pait – Executive Director – Gainsboro YMCA

I mean [teachers] are sacrificing every day for our children, so we’re able to feed them.”

Richard Macher – Owner – Macado’s Restaurants

For more information on how you can help and donate, visit the YMCA of Virginia’s Blue Ridge website by clicking here.

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