Tony's Cafe Owner Brings Food To Families In Need

CRYSTAL LAKE, IL — John Zemka, like restaurant owners across the state, has seen his pocketbook hit hard when his business was forced to shut down amid concerns over the spread of COVID-19. Despite that, the owner of Tony's Cafe in Crystal Lake says he knows there are plenty of people out there — those who've been without jobs or a paycheck for months — who are much worse off.

"I'm here trying to keep my restaurant open but there are people who can't eat at your restaurant or can't afford to eat at all," Zemka said.

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With that in mind, Zemka decided he wanted to give back. He let the community know he's willing to help those who "are not working/not getting a paycheck" or have "run out of food or necessities" in a Facebook post Wednesday.

"...please don't let yourself or your kids go to sleep with an empty stomach. Don't be afraid or embarassed to send me a private message," according to the Facebook post.

Since then, the response has been overwhelming, he said. In the past two days, Zemka and those helping with outreach effort were able to get food and other necessities to eight families. Zemka’s grandchildren, Brooklyn and Brayden, helped shop for the goods, and they traveled from Crystal Lake to Wonder Lake, Wauconda, McHenry and elsewhere, he said.

Zemka has been paying for the donations out of his pocket but says anyone willing to donate food can send a direct message to Tony's Cafe to let him know how they might be willing to help. Also, those needing help or food can send a private message to the cafe.

"We are finding there are several people who need help didn't want to say it or ask for it," Zemka said.