Philly Vegan’s pay-what-you-can program returns amid government shutdown
VENN
RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Local restaurant Philly Vegan is bringing back its pay-what-you-can initiative citywide as Richmond continues to weather the impact of the federal government shutdown.
The family-owned vegan restaurant, located at 1126 Hull Street Road, announced in a social post on Friday, Oct. 17, that patrons can purchase items on its pay-what-you-can menu based on affordability.
"We know a lot of people have been affected... We just want to do whatever we can to help," said co-owner Samuel Veeny. "Just hang in there, family. We're here for y'all."
A recent study found that Virginia ranks among the top 10 most vulnerable states to the ongoing federal freeze.
Owners said the initiative will run until the shutdown is resolved. Customers can also choose an item for free if they can't afford it.
This isn't the first time Philly Vegan has stepped up to support Richmond residents.
The restaurant ran the program earlier this year when the city faced wide-reaching challenges from the Richmond area's water crisis.
Veeny and his team at Philly Vegan typically runs the initiative once a month. The plant-based restaurant offers Philly staples like fries, cheesesteaks and nachos.
Philly Vegan is open:
- 11:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. from on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
- 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Fridays.
- Noon to 9 p.m. on Saturdays.
