Restaurant works with mission to staff its takeout Saturdays
July 8, 2021
A unique partnership is making it possible for broasted chicken fans to get takeout once a week at Cluckin’ Good Chicken & BBQ.
Co-owner Ben Weiland is working with the Union Gospel Mission to staff the business Saturday evenings.
When Weiland, who wants to retire, and his son, Jono, couldn’t find a buyer for the east-side restaurant – the successor to Bob’s Cafe – they shifted to a catering-only model in April.
Seeking to keep his long-time customers happy, Weiland wanted to offer takeout on Saturdays if he could find workers. That’s where a connection with the Sioux Falls shelter for the homeless, where he has donated food throughout the years, came into play. Five men who are using the services of the Union Gospel Mission have been helping him prepare and serve an express menu for the past three weeks. A former part-time employee works with customers.
“It gives them an opportunity to make money and get fed, and it gives the public a chance to come and get fed,” Weiland said. “What I’m trying to do is make the product available to the public who really want it. Now, they know they can come Saturday nights. And it gives someone who is looking to work and make a better opportunity for themselves an opportunity.”
The food is available from 4 to 8 p.m. or sooner if it runs out, which has been happening every week so far, Weiland said.
“It has been a blessing,” said Seraphim Rodriquez, the kitchen manager at Union Gospel Mission. “It gives them experience working with people, to trust God and in other people, to get back into society and learning. It’s all about JOY: Jesus, others and yourself. … When we are thinking of others, we are helped too.”
Weiland isn’t getting to enjoy a retirement yet. He has been keeping busy with catering jobs, everything from birthdays and weddings to family reunions and church gatherings.
“It doesn’t have to be huge,” he said. “I just don’t want it to be three people.”
Catering information and the menu for Saturdays can be found on the Cluckin’ Good website and Facebook page. The business has a new phone number: 605-951-8555.
