The crew at Topspot Diner in Parksville noticed the growing need in the community this holiday season, so the eatery is making a Christmas offer from the heart to those who are struggling.
“People need help and I think the least we can do, is provide them a hot coffee or hot chocolate and a slice of pizza,” said Rohini Mehendiratta, the owner of Top Spot Diner.
The diner along the Alberni Highway just opened in October and it’s already reaching out to the community.
“We like touching people’s lives,” said David Ichofe, the chef.
Parksville’s Fred Buott has become a nearly daily customer and the 80-year-old calls the pizza the best he’s ever had.
“It’s great and when you taste it you’re just going to say this is like it’s from heaven because it’s so good,” said Buott.
Mehendiratta hopes the offer of a free lunch will welcome in anyone who’s struggling.
“We want to support our locals. I want to make sure everybody is smiling and you know not every day is a money maker,” said Mehendiratta. “We want to do this regardless of the cost. We want to help people.”
The free coffee and a slice of pizza is being offered daily right through January because Topspot’s owner said she knows people will need it well past Christmas.
“I think that’s amazing for a small business to take from their bottom line to help the community,” said Bryanna Venos, who works for the Mount Arrowsmith Salvation Army. The charity runs a food bank and soup kitchen out of Parksvillle and has seen need spike by 44 per cent since August.
“The cost of living has just increased faster than anyone can handle. Groceries, fuel, housing. People who own their own homes, and work full time, they can’t put food on the table.”
Topspot, urges people to take them up on their offer and enjoy a slice of kindness and a hot coffee, during these coldest of months.
Skye Ryan
