Nana’s Southern Kitchen will give away more than 1,500 free meals on Christmas Day at its locations in Kent and Covington.
It’s the third consecutive year the restaurant is partnering with several corporate executives and community members to provide the meals.
From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Christmas Day, the public can come to Nana’s in Kent or Covington for one free main dish with two sides per person. Staff is asking that everyone bring their patience as they work to serve 1,500 customers.
Nana’s is at 10234 SE 256th St., in Kent and at 27149 185th Ave. SE in Covington.
Nana’s Southern Kitchen serves Southern staples, from a fixed menu, including main dishes of fried chicken, catfish, fried shrimp, and pork chops with sides of potato salad, green beans, mustard or collard greens, cabbage, candied yams, and macaroni and cheese. Both the Kent and Covington restaurants offer indoor dining, takeout and third-party delivery.
Nana’s gave out 1,200 meals on Christmas Day 2021 and 400 meals in 2020 when it had just the Kent location.
The event continues the welcoming spirit of Nana’s namesake Myrtle Henderson.
“My great grandmother, Nana, used her food to bring people together, teach life lessons and welcomed everyone,” owner Todd Minor said.
Dametra Johnson-Marletti, Microsoft Corporate vice president, led the effort, donating 700 meals, Minor said. Judson Althoff, Microsoft executive vice president and chief commercial officer, and his wife Laura gave 500 meals. Rodney Clark, Johnson Controls vice president and chief commercial officer, donated 100 meals. Microsoft vice presidents Alex Cook and Laura Longcore gave 50 meals each. Additionally, more than 30 individuals and businesses contributed to the effort, donating 1 to 25 meals.
Nana’s Southern Kitchen staff is inspired by all of those who contributed whether it was one or 500 meals, Minor said. Every meal makes a positive impact. Nana’s has also had a dozen volunteers step up to ensure this year’s success. Minor said Nana’s is beyond thankful to those who are giving time on Christmas Day.
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