Big Bear Lake restaurant offers free meals to SNAP recipients

BIG BEAR LAKE, Calif. (KABC) -- At Get the Burger restaurant in Big Bear Lake Wednesday, a free meal was provided for those in need.

Hot dogs, fries and a drink was on the house for anyone who showed their SNAP card as the government shutdown was still in effect. The longest government shutdown in U.S. history ended Wednesday evening after 43 days.

"I think it's excellent. I think it's wonderful to give back to the community," customer Melanie Snyder said. "It brings a lot of locals here."

Like many communities throughout the area, it's been a struggle for people who rely on SNAP.

"I have the choice between not eating what makes my system thrive - like organics and fresh produce, which I can now not afford - or eat the things that I can afford that will make me ill and sacrifice my health," Big Bear Lake resident Susan Thomas told Eyewitness News.

By noon, dozens of people had already shown up at the restaurant to get a free meal.

The owners of Get the Burger say they know the need in the community is significant. Owner Eric Schwartz said it was time to give back.

Longtime Big Bear residents aren't surprised by the restaurant's offer of a free lunch.

"This is what the Big Bear community is all about," Thomas said. "We help each other."