Maxine Hague believed the people of Springfield, Ohio, had supported her pizza restaurant since she started her business three years ago.
What better way to say thank you, she thought, to open her doors and welcome people on a day when some people might be struggling to celebrate.
So she posted on the door of the Bada Bing Pizzeria restaurant, a sign – which has since gone viral on social media - pointing out that while the restaurant will officially be closed on Thanksgiving Day, anyone who wants to join her, her staff and her family, for a meal will be very welcome.
“If you are hungry, or don't have any money, please come in,” reads the sign. "We will welcome you and make sure you get plenty to eat."
Ms Hague told The Independent that while they would not preparing any pizzas, she and team were preparing roast turkey, ham, stuffing and “all the side dishes”.
“I just think this is our community and and it’s helped us, so it’s our turn to give back.”
Ms Hague is readying to open her doors at 2pm and she is expecting up to 100 people. She said she had contacted a local homeless shelter in case they do not use up all the food they have purchased.
“We’re entering a time of year when it can be depressing for people having to eat alone,” she added. “We’re saying we will be your family for the day.”
