Doing Our Part

Chef Michael Airhart sets up his personal and generous food service operation in various locations in the city of Chicago to feed homeless everyday. "We have a bad virus that's killing everybody. The virus is off the chain," he said. He and his staff wear gloves and are mindful of the danger as they keep their distance while trying to try to bridge the need the crisis has only made worse.

Amid the pandemic, usual resources, not to mention a hot meal, can be hard to come by. "Its about staying safe, but we can't leave our people behind even though things are bad out here," he said. On Wednesday, the 50-year-old Chicagoan served his fare at the Lawrence Avenue viaduct underneath Lake Shore Drive. In only a few hours, he plated more than 1,500 hot dogs, steak tacos, and pork chops.

Michael embodies the spirit of giving and action. For the past five years, he has made it his mission push himself to capacity, serving an average of 500 meals daily. Michael and his two brothers were raised in a single-parent home in the projects of Altgeld Gardens from the late 1960s. His upbringing was similar to so many- a poor, abusive- and drug-filled home, yet so different with the help of his community and his own will. Not only does Michael feed thousands a year, Michael lives by his own sayings, "Everyday with the homeless is like spending time with God, these are HIS children, our family, friends, brothers, sisters, uncles, aunts, mom and dads--Who are we as human beings if we ignore the suffering of others!" It is with this, Michael hopes to inspire others to take on and do what they can for others.

“My name is Michael Airhart and for the past 6 years, I've dedicated my life to helping the less fortunate. I love what I do! Whether it's working with the homeless in the streets and shelters of Chicago, youth reentering the workforce, throwing block parties in my Riverdale community, or creating mascots for schools, I show up with food, love, music, and mentorship.

With the help of the Riverdale Park District, I'll be using this money to secure 2-years of rent at an actual warehouse! I currently use my garage as my warehouse for food, toys, clothes, blankets, and whatever else the people need. Having a warehouse will allow me to take in more donations and provide job opportunities for my community. Your support is everything!

I want to be able to provide for all of God's people, even those forgotten about. With these funds, I hope to expand my vision, operations and the tangible impact of helping individuals in need”.

EZ Case Loans has teamed with Chef Michael to provide with financial assistance and food donations to contribute to his mission to feed and help the needs of Chicago’s homeless.

• #homelesslivesmatter
• #peopleslivesmatter