In Maywood, Illinois, a cherished local eatery is striving to remain operational while continuing its mission of nourishing the community.
Despite her own challenges, the proprietor of Just Like Mama’s is determined to give back this Thanksgiving season.
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Veda Page takes great pride in ensuring her culinary creations live up to the promise of her restaurant’s name, Just Like Mama’s. Her goal is to provide a warm meal to anyone in need, whether they can afford it or not.
During the government shutdown, Page extended her support to those who had lost their SNAP benefits, offering a helping hand.
“I’ve been feeding the community since November 1,” Page affirmed. “My word is my bond. So if I say I’m going to do it, I’m gonna do it.”
This Thanksgiving is no different. Her bustling Maywood establishment is filled with volunteers from various organizations that have joined forces with her to provide meals to those in the community.
But Page is facing her own struggles. Her husband suffered a stroke, and with medical bills piling up, she’s months behind on rent and is facing eviction.
“We would love to stay in the community, but we need community support,” Page said.
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Now, the people she’s fed for years are feeding her spirit, rallying around the woman who never turns anyone away.
Kenya Stewart is one of the many volunteers who helped prepare the meals given out on Saturday.
‘She’s always willing to give back,” Stewart said. “She’s always done that.”
Page says a boost in customers could be the difference between saving the restaurant.
“I just have a big heart,” Page said. “I just love heart, and I just want people to be happy.”
For more information on how to help and Page and Just Like Mana’s restaurant, click here.
