James and Sara “Sally” Mangham, their business still boarded up from the storm, without power, both at their home and their restaurant, looked out at their community and the blow Hurricane Irma had struck. They couldn’t give their neighbors electricity or make the flood waters recede, but they could cook.
They set their own hardships aside, gathered up camp stoves, propane cookers, and made a grocery run for supplies.
Their facebook page was the dinner bell, ringing out with a message of love, support and hospitality following the storm;
“Come join us tonight around 5! We don’t have power but we are cooking anyway! This one’s on us! Chicken and Rice along with some other “goodies”…..just want to take care of those who take care of us! Come join us…first come first serve!”
After they served the first hot meal many had enjoyed in days they thanked all those who came.
“Because of you…we are blessed, and so humbled. Thank you all who came to join us for dinner and a reprieve from the trials of the storm. Your kindness to us cannot be measured.”
And then, the following night, they rang the dinner bell again!
“Anybody still without power? We are but we are still going to take care of you!! Come join us again tonight around 5 for dinner!! It’s on us! We are having Goulash and green beans and fresh fruit and bread…may be some other things as well. The pleasure of your company last night was just what we needed! Let’s do it again!!!”
They also deliver meals to the Heart Babies families on surgery day, and try on Holidays to feed the CVICU Unit, at Wolfson’s Children’s Hospital, families and staff included and if they have extras they share with the other floors. If the Manghams had their way, they would do it every day.
And yes, this act of love they still managed to do, without power, during hurricane recovery.
Power has been restored. Simply Sara’s has been restocked and supplied, and the Manghams are cooking up a storm.
Simply Sara’s
2902 Corinthian Ave
Jacksonville, Florida, FL 32210
(904) 387-1000
What your neighbors are saying about the Manghams and Simply Sara’s;
“Thank you Simply Sara’s. Last night the food was great, and it was the first warm meal we’d had since Irma. The chicken and rice reminded me of my momma’s.’ ~Jon R.
“I already loved this restaurant and the folks there but what you are doing has deeply touched me. Thank you for putting others first during tough times for everyone.’ ~Jane T.
“I think this is absolutely awesome what you guys are doing!! Many blessings to you and your families!” ~Debbie M.
“Y’all make my heart swell so big! God bless your kind hearts! Don’t EVER change!” ~Lauren M.
“You folks are amazing. I saw the line last night. Said a prayer of thanksgiving.” ~Fonda S.
“Thank you so much. Having a hot meal and spending time with neighbors old and new meant a lot.” ~Janice A.
“Y’all have been amazing through this weekend. We here in Jacksonville are truly blessed to have y’all in our community.” ~ Christopher S.
“ So proud of James and Sara for taking care of the neighborhood in a time of crisis… love them and their family to death. A great American story of success!” ~Tanya G.
“…And thank you for feeding those who needed it the past few nights. I know it was a blessing for them..” ~Carol W.
“Thank you for feeding so many when your business had no power.”
~Beth F.
“James Mangham, you really came through for the neighborhood. Your thoughtfulness is well appreciated, Sir. Thank you!’ ~Lance C.
“Other businesses should take note of not only your caring attitude but your dedication to the community you live in. Thank you for selfishly sharing your talent. We have enjoyed your restaurant on a couple occasions, but you generosity during this tough time will encourage me to support you more.” ~Julie G.
“Thank you for caring for the community. May God bless all of you for what ya’ll are doing. Your heart is so big and it is appreciated. Praying for all of you there at Simply Sara’s.’ ~Sharon T.
“Seriously.. y’all make my teeth hurt how sweet y’all are ♡ Angels in disguise” ~Lauren M.
“Absolute hearts of gold I appreciate everything you’ve done for everyone you are truly amazing” ~Heather N Petey P
“Thanks for taking care of your community❤️ Amazing people, Amazing food!!” ~Anne S.
“ Thank you all for always giving back even when your own personal lives have been disrupted.” ~Deena B.
“Wonderful You are so giving in this time of need” ~ Wilma B.
“Thank you so much for your generosity and your caring heart” ~Dottie C.
“Thank you! Last night dinner was wonderful! ❤️ We appreciate you.” ~Paige K.
“This is the most giving, loving and awesome family with a fantastic restaurant. Thanks for all you do.” ~Julie H.
