Jockamo Upper Crust Pizza hosting donation drive for local food pantries
IRVINGTON, Ind. (WISH) – Jockamo Upper Crust Pizza is giving back to the community by hosting a donation drive for food pantries who continue to serve families during the coronavirus pandemic.
It’s happening all day at each location on Tuesday.
Proceeds will be given to The Refuge Inc. in Greenwood, The ReSET Center in Lawrence and ICAN Food Pantry in Irvington.
Those who make a minimum donation of $5 will receive a $5 “Monkey Bucks” coupon to redeem at their next visit. It can be used for dine-in only and does not expire.
Owners of Jockamo Upper Crust Pizza said they will make a matching donation at each restaurant location, despite being hit hard from COVID-19.
Co-owner Bob Stark said business remains steady since reopening for dine-in and is trying to get back on track.
He mentioned the franchise has held a food drive for local food pantries in the past as many people have been struggling to survive.
“We drove past a pawn shop and they were lined out the door and we thought we’ve got to get this food drive done that we promised to do,” said Stark. “Now is a good time to do it.”
Stark added he wants to give back to communities that have been loyal since the pandemic and customers who have been ordering curbside pickup and delivery, including giving generous tips to staff members.
News 8 has reached out to each pantry for comment.
“We are so thrilled and thankful for Jockamos’ donation drive. It’s been a challenging time and this money will be put to good use for our neighbors who rely on our pantry each week,” said ICAN Food Pantry’s Managing Director Jill Phillips.
Executive Director Howard Harding said, “The ReSET Center is excited and looking forward to the community partnership with Jockamo Upper Crust Pizza. To have additional resources to address the needs of our community is not only a win for The ReSET Center, it also speaks volumes for the owners and management of Jockamo Upper Crust Pizza, and for that, we’re extremely grateful.”