APPLETON (WLUK) — Those looking for a holiday meal on Christmas were able to go to two restaurants in Downtown Appleton offering free meals to the community.
Appleton Beer Factory had a table full of food for visitors to choose from.
“Response has been great,” said Director of Sales and Entertainment Mark Mader. “We have actually, almost every table that has had people coming in, we’ve had volunteers that are at the table talking to them, just having conversations with them and giving them someone to talk to during the holidays.”
Volunteers who helped give out the food told FOX 11 it was a great way to connect with those who need connections during the holiday season.
“We had one patron that said he lost both his parents in the past year and didn’t really have a place this holiday, and was thankful for a space to come and have a great meal,” volunteer Shawn Lemery said.
It was Appleton Beer Factory’s first time hosting the event, and all the food that was leftover was delivered to Pillars to continue helping those who need food.
Appleton Beer Factory said it aims to expand its food donations next year, with plans to give free meals on Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Just a block down College Avenue, The Cozzy Corner held their second annual outreach meal.
“Great turnout, we’ve got a lot of people,” said Owner and Chef Philip Bennett. “We’ve got in house customers, regular customers buying regular food and the food that we’re giving away.”
Visitors eat their free Christmas meal at The Cozzy Corner in Appleton, December 25, 2025. (WLUK/Lauren Pieczynski)
In addition to the food, the restaurant was also offering hygiene items, blankets, and more, donated to The Cozzy Corner to give to customers who need them most.
Bennett said that his family came out to help give back to the community.
“Today is a day that people want to spend time with their families, and some people aren’t fortunate enough to do that or don’t have families around here. We opened up, because we don’t really have anything to do, so we open up our doors and provide a meal to the people that don’t have on,” he said.
Dining and Cooking