WILDWOOD – Bill’s Corner Deli has been located at the same corner of the same community since 1984.
The deli, at Glenwood Avenue and Park Boulevard, is actually known for its pizza, which according to manager Sean Smith is about 60% of the business.
Recently, however, Bill’s has been in the spotlight for its community spirit.
On the first weekend of November, with the controversy over proposed cuts to federal emergency food assistance swirling, Bill’s announced via social media that it would be offering a free hot dog, chicken nuggets or six-inch personal pizza to any child.
“We know times are tough and families are struggling,” the Facebook post read. “Starting Nov. 1, kids may come in and eat for FREE!”
A follow-up post on Monday, Nov. 3, said, “Wow, what a great start! We fed a lot of kids this weekend and it was simply amazing.”
According to Smith, between 40 and 50 kids took part in the program. Asked which of the free items was most popular, he said, “The pizza was a pretty big part of it. I’d say at least half.”
The Facebook post said other businesses, such as Revolution Liquor, Island Wave Cleaning and Kathy from The Granada, as well as many individuals, made donations toward the project.
“It’s truly wonderful to see all of the support from our community, and we cannot thank you enough! It really does take a village,” the Nov. 3 post read.
Island Wave Cleaning is running a food drive benefitting the Lazarus House in Wildwood. A collection bin is located at Bill’s Corner Deli, as well as at Douglass Fudge, Island Bowl and Kimberly’s Eatery.
Smith said there were no restrictions for kids to receive the free food items – only that they be kids – no ID required.
He explained that the owner’s children came up with the idea for the food giveaway. He said they are already doing other charitable work, saw this need, and asked themselves, “How can we help?”
Bill’s Corner Deli serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. It is open every day except Tuesday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Contact the reporter, Christopher South, at csouth@cmcherald.com or call 609-886-8600, ext. 128.
