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Restaurant Group Steps Up for Service Workers During SNAP Cuts

Staff Report From Georgia CEO

Wednesday, November 5th, 2025

With the government shutdown creating uncertainty for families relying on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, 26X Restaurants is stepping up to help. All 26X Restaurant locations are participating in Feeding America’s The Next Billion Meals Challenge by Tony Robbins. This includes all Zunzi’s and Zunzibar locations in Savannah, Tybee Island, Atlanta, and Hilton Head Island, South Carolina.

 Throughout November, 26 cents will be added to every transaction at the restaurants. These funds will be donated weekly, enabling them to reach local communities quickly through Feeding America’s The Next Billion Meals Challenge by Tony Robbins. Each donation will be matched, totaling 52 cents per transaction, the equivalent of providing five meals.

 To further support those who keep our communities running, participating Zunzi’s and Zunzibar restaurants are offering 50% off to all service industry workers during November. Service industry workers can text “SERVICE” to 912-207-7551 to register for this discount.

Additionally, 26 Club members—new and existing—can enjoy 26% off their meals during November. To access this offer, text “FEED” to 912-207-7551 and dine at Zunzi’s and Zunzibar restaurants during the month. 
“The service industry feeds America, and it is in the middle of a silent crisis,” says Chris Smith, 26X founder and CEO. “Much of the service industry relies on SNAP and other government support. With those programs in jeopardy, the 26X Feeding America movement will help close the gap.”
 
According to the Union of Concerned Scientists, approximately 14.9 million U.S. workers lived in households that received SNAP benefits. Service occupations, including restaurant employees such as cooks and waitstaff, accounted for about 28% of those workers. Restaurant employees are among the most likely to rely on SNAP, with an estimated 18% of food preparation and service workers receiving benefits between 2015 and 2017.

“The 26X Feeding America movement was inspired by Tony Robbins' personal story of when he was in need as a child and a good Samaritan delivered a Thanksgiving dinner to his family,” adds Smith. “His story is not unfamiliar to people all over America. Now is the time for the service industry to unite and show the impact we can make together.”

To learn more and join the initiative, visit 26x.com/26x-feeding-america.