Chris Miller was following the news about people lining up at food banks and losing their jobs when he got an idea. With Easter approaching, in the time of COVID-19, he wanted to help people afford a good holiday dinner.
The next day, trucks were parked outside of Kennedy’s Market in Escondido, and people were lined up to get a free New York roast from Brandt Beef, based in Brawley.
“People need to know that in tough times we can come together and really help each other out,” Miller said. “We literally whipped this thing together in a day.”
Miller is the owner of Cantina Racing and is friends with Eric Brandt. Miller wanted to buy $30,000 worth of meat from the Brandt’s meat plant. He found a supportive partner in the Brandt family. Eric called Miller after receiving a text from him.
“I told him whatever you’re gonna do I’ll match it. That turned it from a lot of meat to a lot more meat,” Brandt said.
People arrived at Kennedy’s Market early Saturday morning to line up for the noon giveaway. Brandt said the entire wholesale cost of the meat was about $60,000.
Miller said he hoped it made a difference in the lives of people in San Diego County.
“I hope that people have a nice warm meal on a beautiful Easter weekend,” he said.
