Page 5 - Florida Sentinel 11-19-21

Feature
Soul Food Restauranteur Will Host Community Thanksgiving Dinner
BY MONIQUE STAMPS Sentinel Staff Writer
Melissa Hayes, owner of Aun- tie’s Soul Food and More, is open- ing her restaurant to the community for Thanksgiving on Sunday, November 21, 2021.
This is the fifth year Hayes has opened her doors to the public for Thanksgiving. Originally, the idea was to feed the homeless. However, Hayes has extended the invitation to any member of the community while supplies last.
Hayes has been in business since August 12, 2012. She has al- ways loved to cook and learned the business from her former mother- in-law.
MELISSA HAYES ...Owner of Auntie’s Soul Food And More
Hayes and her twin sister Melinda grew up in Tampa and at- tended Hillsborough High School. She and her sister went to foster care when they were eleven, and since then both young ladies have had a passion for working with young women.
Hayes’ non-profit, Speaking Strength & Empowering Young Ladies, works with other organiza- tions to help underprivileged girls.
The Thanksgiving Dinner will be a joint effort of her business and her non-profit.
Hayes is grateful for her three children, Tanashia, Treyonna, and Deshiya and is thankful for her support system.
There will be games, a bounce
house, and face painting for the children.
The event is sponsored by Primerica, Speaking Strength & Empowering Young Ladies, Ladies of Vision, Allusions Lounge, Chic Chanelle Events & Décor, Avari Cups, Flawless Touch Beauty Labs, and others.
Hayes states, “I want to provide nourishing meals for Thanksgiving. This is my way of giving back to the community that supported me.”
The festivities will take place on Sunday, November 21, 2021, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Auntie’s Soul Food and More, 1006 E. Hillsborough Ave. Tampa, Florida 33604.
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