Simple Eats Cafe is a family-owned business in Forked Island that began a new tradition of giving back for the holidays. 

They’re collecting coats, food, socks and toys.. with this year meaning more to them than ever before. 

For simple eats cafe, giving back means more than just providing a hot plate of food for their customers. they’re once again collecting essential items to give right back to the community.

“Give. that’s what it’s all about. cause you never know what the next person is going through. you never know if you’re going to be in the same situation,” said John Ledet during a 2017 interview for the start-up of the collection drive. 

He passed away July 25 and his family said he is the heart behind it all. 

“I want to dedicate this to him because this is something he wanted to do,” said brother and Simple Eats Cafe Manager Stephen Ledet. 

“John had such a big giving heart. I mean all he did was gave. He always saw the best in people,” said mother and Simple Eats Cafe Owner Gerry Roemro. 

The family said they has witnessed people come day in and day out in need of the very items they’re gathering. That what sparked the idea of the in December 2017. 

“The economy is down right now and people are hurting. it’s not just the businesses. it residents period,” said Ledet. 

The family helped over 100 families last year with the goal of doubling that number this year. They fed 175 people during a holiday dinner and hope to feed 275 this year. 

“For us to give back to them showing our appreciation and showing that we do care. We just not here to take their money but we’re here to give back to them as well,” said Ledet. 

The family hopes to keep John’s passion and memory alive throughout the drive. “I know he’s here. He’s in my heart. He’s with me 24 hours a day,” Romero added. 

The  drive will be accepting donations until Christmas Eve. On Christmas Eve supplies will be delivered to families. 

Those who have a family in mind that may benefit from the drive can contact Stephen Ledet at 337-642-9565 or at Simple Eats Cafe on Facebook.