Veterans Fare -It's a "Thing" now!
This blog is related to a Pay it Forward type of program we at EP!K bites are embracing now and in the future as a way to honor our veterans and create a community around them.
Uno DeKine
3/15/20254 min read
Veterans Fare: A Way to Honor Those Who Served and are still on earth to enjoy life!
At ËP!K Bites, we believe in more than just great food—we believe in community, respect, and giving back. That’s why we’re proud to introduce Veterans Fare, a heartfelt initiative designed to honor and support the brave men and women who have served our country.
What Does “Fare” Mean?
“Fare” can mean many things:
• It’s the cost of a journey—the price paid for a ticket on a bus, train, or taxi.
• It’s a meal served—the food we enjoy together at a restaurant or stand.
• It’s how someone is doing—as in “How did they fare?”
With Veterans Fare, we are embracing all three meanings. We’re covering the fare of a meal, offering veterans a free Liège waffle as a thank-you for their service. We’re also providing a journey—a taste of Belgium through our delectable waffles, transporting our guests to the heart of Europe, one bite at a time. And, most importantly, we are helping our veterans fare better by creating a welcoming community that recognizes their sacrifices.
Mark Your Calendar: Memorial Day 2025
We are proud to announce that the official commencement of the Veterans Fare program will take place on Memorial Day 2025. This day holds deep significance as we honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice while also supporting the veterans in our community who have served with courage and dedication.
What is Veterans Fare?
Veterans Fare is our way of saying “thank you” to military veterans. Any veteran who visits our waffle stand and simply says, “I’d like to get the Veterans Fare” will receive one free, delicious Liège waffle—no questions asked, no strings attached. It’s a small token of appreciation for their service and sacrifice.
But this isn’t just about us giving back—it’s about creating a community that uplifts and honors our veterans together.
It’s Veterans Fare or Fair?
Life is not always fair, but we can certainly provide the fare for a singular waffle to a veteran as a silent thank you.
Nobody will know that you donated—only you will. You just have to say, “I’d like to contribute to Veterans Fare.”
We don’t have a tip jar. Instead, you can contribute digitally when you visit our stand, or simply purchase a waffle for yourself and know that you’ve made a difference.
How Does It Work?
Instead of having a traditional tip jar, we’ve created a Pay It Forward Waffle Fund. This means that anyone—whether they’re a veteran or not—can contribute to this initiative by donating the cost of a waffle. Here’s how you can take part:
1. Visit our stand and enjoy an authentic Belgian Liège waffle.
2. Donate a waffle—Simply let us know you’d like to buy an extra waffle for a veteran.
3. Veterans Redeem for Free—A veteran comes in, asks for the Veterans Fare, and enjoys a waffle that was gifted by someone in the community.
Every time a waffle is donated, it goes into our Veterans Fare tally, ensuring that there’s always something available for those who have served.
Why It Matters
For many veterans, transitioning back to civilian life can be challenging. A simple act of kindness—like a free meal and a warm conversation—can mean more than we realize. Veterans Fare is about more than just food; it’s about recognition, respect, and community.
This program encourages people from all walks of life to come together—to sit, talk, share stories, and be reminded that we are stronger as a community when we lift each other up.
How You Can Help
If you want to be a part of Veterans Fare, here are a few ways to contribute:
• Donate a Waffle – The next time you visit ËP!K Bites, ask to contribute to the Veterans Fare fund.
• Spread the Word – Tell the veterans in your life about this program. Let them know they are always welcome at our stand.
• Share the Story – Post on social media, tag us, and help raise awareness for this initiative.
• Encourage Others to Give Back – Sometimes, all it takes is one act of kindness to start a ripple effect.
Our Bigger Vision
This is just the beginning. As our business grows, we plan to take Veterans Fare even further. In the future, we want to empower veterans to become business owners by teaching them how to run their own ËP!K Bites waffle stand. We believe in helping veterans not just with a free meal, but with real opportunities for success.
Join Us on Memorial Day 2025
At ËP!K Bites, we don’t just serve waffles—we serve our community. And with Veterans Fare, we’re inviting you to help us create a space where veterans are honored, valued, and always welcomed.
Join us on Memorial Day 2025 as we officially launch this initiative. Let’s make a difference together, one waffle at a time.
Have questions or want to support Veterans Fare in a bigger way?
Contact us at epikmac@gmail.comand let’s work together to honor those who served.
Santé, and thank you to all who have worn the uniform.
Respectfully w/ Love & Respect,
Eric D. McCrory - Proprietor
