'Its our responsibility to give back' Fed food cuts spur San Jose eatery to offer free meals - Local News Matters

Bay Area restaurants are mobilizing to provide free meals to children affected by the federal government shutdown and the suspension of food aid, particularly impacting families relying on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Tony & Alba’s Pizza & Pasta in San Jose is leading this effort, offering free meals to kids and a 25% discount for parents until SNAP is restored. Customer Carlos Renteria praised the initiative, noting the significant help it provides to struggling families. Other local eateries, including Shrimp’n Ain’t Eazy and Monster Pho, have joined the movement, offering complimentary meals for children. Owner Tee Tran of Monster Pho, who experienced food insecurity as a child, expressed a strong commitment to giving back to the community.

Diana Vallorz, co-owner of Tony & Alba’s, plans to compile a list of participating restaurants to share with local schools. The initiative has already attracted three to four families daily to Tony & Alba’s for the free meals. Vallorz emphasized the importance of community support, stating, "Our business succeeds because of the community. So, it’s our responsibility to give back.