The #EveryoneEatz movement was started by In-Fretta Pizza owner Ram Mehta, who promised his mother before she died that no one would leave his restaurant hungry. Since that point, Mehta said he has spent $69,800 on meals for those who need them.
In-Fretta’s mission to provide free meals predates the pandemic, but high levels of unemployment caused by coronavirus gave the movement new meaning.
“If you are hungry and can't afford a meal, your food is on me, no questions asked,” he said.
Increased demand for free meals led Mehta to partner with other restaurants. For the May 1 event, In-Fretta has partnered with Mediterranean grocer Sara’s Market & Bakery to provide 5,000 free meals and 5,000 free masks.
The event will also include complimentary COVID-19 tests administered through area clinic WellHealth. Patients must be screened online prior to the event. Testing will be held from noon-1:30 p.m.
For Mehta, this event and the #EveryoneEatz movement is about showing appreciation for his community.
“It’s the same community that made us successful... This is our time as humanity to pay it back,” Mehta said.
The event will take place from 12-3 p.m. Friday, May 1 at Sara’s Market & Bakery, 750 S. Sherman St., Richardson.
Correction: A previous version of this article incorrectly spelled the movement's hashtag.
