In just one month of opening their business, a compassionate new owner is already making a significant impact on the community.
Ali Shaik, owner of Shawarma and More, donated 30 hot and fresh meals to the Salvation Army of Chatham-Kent on Thursday for those in need.
"We've had a lot of people come into the restaurant," said Shaik. "I wasn't expecting the response we have received. It's been amazing. We are seeing a lot of customers."
Because of that response, Shaik wanted to give back. He said he reached out to a couple of local organizations but was directed to donate to the Salvation Army.
"I wanted to donate fresh food that we made with our hands," said Shaik. "I felt so good after doing that Thursday, I decided I was going to put aside some money at the end of each day. At the end of the month, I will make another donation with some hot meals."
Shaik said he didn't just open up a new business in Chatham. He also moved his family to the community about six months ago.
He said he wanted to offer up some fresh flavours, after noticing there weren't a lot of Middle Eastern restaurants in the area.
"We decided to move to a smaller community," said Shaik. "This is our first restaurant, we created this together as a family."
The restaurant opened to the public on December 1, 2023. It's located at 595 St. Clair Street in Chatham.
To learn more about the restaurant or to see a menu, visit the website.