January 10, 2025
(press release)
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How one Restaurant’s commitment to community and a nonprofit’s dedication to service are transforming lives in Hatillo In Hatillo, Puerto Rico, Chick-fil-A® Hatillo is more than just a place to enjoy a delicious meal; it’s a community hub that prioritizes serving others. This commitment to community shines bright through the Restaurant’s work with Dream Center Esperanza Ministry, a local nonprofit dedicated to supporting individuals facing homelessness, addiction, abuse and poverty.
Dream Center Esperanza Ministry, located just minutes away from the Restaurant, serves as a critical resource for the Hatillo community. Their services include a soup kitchen, food pantry and senior home delivery, as well as children’s programs that provide meals and activities several times each week.
A Local Owner-Operator’s Heart for Community
A lifelong resident of Puerto Rico, Juan Olivo Morales was thrilled to learn of Chick-fil-A’s expansion plans on the Island. He decided to take a leap of faith, transitioning from 20 years of supply chain management to pursuing entrepreneurship. In 2023, Juan opened Chick-fil-A Hatillo, eager to make a difference in his community.
“When I opened my Restaurant, I told my team that if a nonprofit that is committed to serving our community calls asking for food donations, we say ‘yes,’” said Juan. “Programs like Chick-fil-A Shared Table make it easy for us to give back to our community in a tangible way.”
Shared Purpose and Shared Impact
When Juan first met the team from Dream Center Esperanza Ministry during his Restaurant’s grand opening, he felt an immediate connection. As the nonprofit shared plans to expand its outreach and open a soup kitchen, Juan was deeply moved. “Whatever you do, knock on my door,” he told them, recognizing a shared purpose in their work.
Juan recognized the importance of the nonprofit’s powerful local impact early on. He knew that he wanted to play a part in supporting its mission to uplift the community.
“Partnerships with organizations like Dream Center let us extend our hospitality beyond the Restaurant and make a real difference in people’s lives,” Juan said.
Food Donation Program Extends to Puerto Rico
As one of the first Chick-fil-A restaurant in Puerto Rico to participate in the Chick-fil-A Shared Table® food donation program, Juan’s Restaurant has been able to serve the community beyond its four walls. Through this initiative, Dream Center Esperanza Ministry picks up extra food from Chick-fil-A Hatillo twice per week, transforming extra biscuits and chicken into nourishing meals for those in need.
This partnership allows the nonprofit to serve approximately 800 meals each month for children, seniors and individuals experiencing homelessness.
Inspiring a Culture of Service
Juan’s commitment goes beyond food donations, as he also encourages his Team Members to volunteer with Dream Center Esperanza Ministry.
“Through my business, my fellow Restaurant leaders and I strive to set an example for our Team Members,” said Juan. “We want our team to feel like they are a part of something meaningful in their community, so we always make sure to share our partnerships with our team and show how they can make a real difference.”
By donating surplus food and fostering an environment of volunteerism and servant leadership, Juan exemplifies how Chick-fil-A is more than just a restaurant brand — it’s a devoted community partner, bringing hope and support to those who need it most.
To learn more about the Chick-fil-A Shared Table program, visit chick-fil-a.com/sharedtable.
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