Newark Chef, Veteran Offers Free Meals To Neighbors Amid Pandemic

NEWARK, NJ — When Walter “Willie” Green launched his takeout restaurant on Frelinghuysen Avenue in Newark in 2019, he had no idea a pandemic was just around the bend. But now, two years later, Uncle Willie’s Wings hasn’t just survived the coronavirus crisis – it’s helping its customers to endure it, too.

On Saturday, June 12, Green and Uncle Willie’s will bring back the popular “Willie’s Day” to the South Ward of the city. In addition to providing free meals to the community, this year’s event will include health and COVID-19 screenings, health and financial support resources, and family-friendly fun that includes a bounce house for kids, games and prizes.

The event will take place from noon to 4 p.m. at the training recreation education center (TREC) at 55 Ludlow Street in Newark.

Meals will be given on a first-come, first-served basis, and social distancing will be followed. The restaurant plans to give out about 300 meals.

Green, an Army veteran and Chicago native, moved to Newark about five years ago, quickly developing a love for his new home city. That love manifested in a big way when the pandemic hit New Jersey.

After seeing the plight of many of his neighbors in South Ward, Green decided he would try to do something to help his community. He used all of his resources from the restaurant to feed 300 people – and thus gave birth to the first-ever Willie’s Day.

Willie’s Day soon expanded to include other local efforts to aid struggling Brick City residents. Soon, Uncle Willie’s Wings was preparing meals for essential health care workers and postal employees, and donating to children’s cancer organizations.

While Newark is starting to see a recovery, unemployment data and high COVID numbers still show a vital need for community support. And after a year of pandemic restrictions, the community deserves a way to reconnect and support each other, Green said.

“We decided to share our food with the community as part of our Willie’s Day BBQ because we know that we can help families right here in this neighborhood,” Green said, explaining the reason for launching last year's event.

“People are hurting, out-of-work, sick, and in need,” Green said. “Since we're a part of Newark and we really believe in the power of community, we created this event to fellowship with our neighbors and perhaps bring a little bit of hope and joy during very difficult times.”

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