MeeMaw’s Hometown Kitchen: A Heartwarming Pay-What-You-Can Initiative in Oregon
In Union, Oregon, Elise Stevens, affectionately known as MeeMaw, has become a beloved figure in her community by running a pay-what-you-can restaurant that serves hundreds each week. Opened in June 2024, MeeMaw’s Hometown Kitchen operates under the principle that “no kid is ever expected to pay, and adults pay only what they truly can afford.” Stevens, who has no other source of income, describes her restaurant as a ministry rather than just a dining establishment.
Stevens’ journey to creating the eatery is deeply personal. Nearly 20 years ago, she escaped an abusive relationship after being held captive while pregnant with her oldest daughter. Her resilient spirit and faith have driven her mission. "I stopped being angry [with God]…I started forgiving and in doing so, I started to find myself again,” she reflects.
The inception of MeeMaw’s Kitchen began when Stevens felt called by God to bake sourdough bread in late 2023. Following the divine inspiration, she not only provided bread to her town but also began selling homemade bagels and cooking for her Bible study. Despite initial hesitations about funding, a generous $5,000 donation from a community member enabled her to launch the restaurant.
At MeeMaw’s, Stevens prepares between 30 to 80 meals daily for children at no cost. Funding comes from her social media income and donations from across the nation. "I give God all the glory,” Stevens insists. Her hope is to expand the restaurant’s mission to feed even more people in need throughout the United States, embodying the spirit of community and faith.
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