Known as one of the best BBQ joints in Alabama, Buddies BBQ in Talladega is once again proving it is one of the most philanthropic restaurants in the state.
Over the years, owner Shane Denney has given back. Whether he is raising money for fire survivors or paying for funerals for grieving local families, Denney and Buddies BBQ is setting an example of what it means to live, love and eat. The restaurant even offers free meals on Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter.
Denney said it is God that motivates him to help others. He said after experiencing loneliness as a child growing up in foster care, he learned at a young age that he wanted to prevent others from feeling that way.
"It's just God," said Denney. "It's just, I'm not a good preacher and I'm not a good singer and I've never been on a mission trip and it's just what God called me to do."
This week, the restaurant set another example, and it led to others pitching in to help.
Buddies BBQ began offering the $5 "Economy Lunch" to help those impacted by the government shutdown. But before he knew it, Denney said community members showed up and showed out.
Community member David Crim came in and paid for all of the lunches on the first day. Then, others came in and offered to pay for someone's ticket. On the first day, 40 meals were paid for. On the second day, 250 meals were paid for. The restaurant is offering prepaid meal tickets for guests.
"I thought that was just wonderful of him to do that and then it went kind of crazy," said Denney.
Denney said that the way people rally to help those in need truly reflects the heart of Talladega.
"This community, they never let me down on this kind of stuff," said Denney. "Every time we do anything like this, they run to help. I mean, it's just every single time."
Buddies BBQ has been in business for 54 years, and one thing's for sure: The kindness and generosity shared at the restaurant is sure to leave a lasting legacy in Talladega and beyond.
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