News

Uncle Maddio's responds to Florida mass slaying with food for the "helpers"

June 14, 2016

While many of the wounded victims of Sunday's Orlando club shooting rampage struggle for their lives in Florida hospitals, people around the state and across the world are turning out in droves to support them and the families of those who perished. Uncle Maddio's pizza owner, Matt Andrews, wanted to do his part, as well, particularly since his chain just opened a location in Orlando. 

That's why, by Monday, Uncle Maddio's staff had already hit the ground running in Orlando to do what they does best — create and serve fresh pizza to those in need. In this case, the slices were meant especially to "help the helpers."

"We have a very personal connection to this community as we recently opened a restaurant here (the third location for our franchisee) and we have friends and family rooted here," Andrews said. "I wanted to help in a meaningful, authentic way, and what better way to do that than through food and our 'Served with Love' culture. As to how many pizzas we will provide — as many as it takes."

By early Monday evening Andrews said the chain had doled out about 250 extra large pizzas and 50 trays of salads to an assortment of the many gathered all around the Orlando area to help in the crisis through either donating blood, working or volunteering at hospitals, or serving in local or federal police and safety ranks. But Andrews said they will continue sending food out to those serving the loved ones and families of those who died or are hospitalized for the foreseeable future. 

"We wanted to say thank you for the selflessness you display on a daily basis," Andrews said.  

Andrews said the community response in Orlando has provided a glimmer of hope to the very dark cloud that the tragedy cast on the nation and world this week. He said his business is among many organizations and individuals who are responding in the best way each is able in order to lighten some of the load for the victims, their loved ones and the many people helping them all.

"It's amazing to see how everyone rises to the occasion and supports in whatever way possible," Andrews said. "Our thoughts and prayers will continue to be with the victims, their families and this entire community. We will continue to be a source of support for many days to come."