Many Americans don’t know where their next meal will come from.
Nationally, 40 million people live in food insecure households.
In Ohio, more than 660,000 households are below the poverty level, and over 300,000 of those do not receive food assistance.
A pay-what-you-can restaurant that also serves as a Christian ministry is addressing that issue in Xenia, Ohio.
One Bistro is a cage where meals are priced from $6 to $9. You can pay the full amount of the menu item’s suggested price, or add a little more to pay it forward. If you are unable to pay, the café asks that you give time in service.
Every Wednesday, One Bistro has a Community Meal from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. These free dinners are often sponsored by an individual or an organization. You can sponsor a Community Meal for $250.
Chad and Toye are two of the café’s volunteers.
“In 2019, I started volunteering at One Bistro as a means to look beyond myself to the needs of others,” Chad said. “I was going through a divorce and was experiencing a lot of grief and pain. I discovered that One Bistro was instrumental in my personal recovery.”
Toye was introduced to One Bistro when she and Chad were dating. He brought her for breakfast one Saturday. They married in 2023 and began volunteering together.
“To place a smile in the heart and face of someone who may otherwise be having a hard time, fills my heart. Knowing I can pay forward the help that was once a necessary part of my life, makes the circle complete,” Toye said.
Chad explained that One Bistro has become a shared ministry.
“I cannot think of a better way for a family to participate together in ministry than One Bistro,” he said.
Kelly Curie left a review on the One Bistro website after a recent visit.
“While hunting for a new brunch spot, I stumbled upon this gem and absolutely adore it! Their menu is simple but there’s also a rotating special of the day featured on their blackboard. Customers are able to suggest new specials through their suggestion box; if selected, you get a complimentary meal and get to taste your creation,” she wrote.
“Not only are the dishes served here delicious and affordable, but their commitment to serve the community is phenomenal,” Kelly added.
For more information about One Bistro, visit www.onebistro.org.
