For most restaurant owners, such a discovery would feel like bad times getting worse.
In the midst of the pandemic which has cost them so much business, Marco’s Pizza shop in The Colony, Texas, was robbed, along with several other businesses in that community on April 19.
Based on surveillance from security cameras (see below), the burglars appeared to be amateur, fumbling through drawers for five minutes, and even trying to open the safe using a pizza spatula.
The pair of would-be thieves walked away almost empty handed, because there wasn’t much in the store to begin with.
Owner Chamal Kahanawita took it as a reminder of the desperate times we are living in and decided to do something to help. He posted a compassionate message Facebook:
“In the coming months, if you find yourself in a situation unable to put food on the table, please stop by our store. There is no need to be shy or embarrassed. Just speak with the manager and quietly let us know you’ve seen this post. We will make sure your family gets a meal.”
“WE are here because of our community and these are very challenging times for all of us. We will do our best to help for as long as we can. Please feel free to share this post so that those who really need our help may see it.”
The post generated an outpouring of support from the community and beyond.
“LOVING THIS ALL THE WAY FROM MEMPHIS!” said Catherine McCraw-Smith, “What a beautiful way to take this and change it for the good.”
Malory Michelle Mudd said “I love this response so much…a terrible situation where you can still empathize with those who have done wrong. This level of compassion is what we truly need. I’ve honestly never eaten at Marco’s but this week I certainly will!”
Marco’s is a counter-serve pizza chain with locations throughout the United States. At The Colony location, about 30 miles from Dallas, the dining area is shut down, but Chamal’s team is currently serving pizzas for delivery and curbside pickup. They also make a variety of subs, salads, and desserts.
