In a remarkable act of generosity, Milwaukee rapper Rakeem Smith, known in the community as Chicken Pete, recently made headlines by ordering 500 burgers from a local McDonald’s to help feed the homeless. The unexpected order, which caught the attention of the restaurant’s manager, Elijah Jones, was part of Smith’s ongoing efforts to give back to those in need.
On Monday, when Smith walked into the McDonald’s with his unique request, it was a sight to behold. Manager Elijah Jones recalls initially being taken aback, asking, “Who ordered 500 burgers?” Upon realizing it was Smith, the restaurant staff quickly mobilized. Four employees worked diligently, with two preparing cheeseburgers and the other two handling hamburgers, successfully wrapping up the massive order in just 45 minutes.
Smith’s motivation for this altruistic endeavor stems from his desire to support the homeless community in Milwaukee. He explained, “I just be in the spirit, bro. Sometimes you just feel the need to give back.” After picking up the burgers, he spent hours driving around the city, distributing meals to those in need. Each person received two burgers, while families, particularly mothers with children, were gifted up to 20 burgers at a time.
This initiative isn’t the first of its kind for Smith. He mentioned that this was his second time organizing such a large-scale food giveaway. Seeing the struggles of the homeless firsthand has deeply impacted him, fueling his commitment to community service. “There are people outside cold; they got a million kids walking. They freezing,” he stated, highlighting the urgent need for support.
The total cost of the 500 burgers exceeded $1,100, which Smith paid out of his own pocket. Despite the expense, he expressed hope that his actions would inspire others to contribute to the community in meaningful ways. “I feel like that’s much respect, you know, because everybody don’t do that,” he remarked, emphasizing the importance of community solidarity.
Looking ahead, Chicken Pete has plans to continue his charitable efforts, aiming to feed the community every other week, though he doesn’t anticipate ordering 500 burgers each time. His commitment to helping those in need reflects a growing trend among local artists and community members who are stepping up to make a positive impact in their neighborhoods.
Smith’s heartwarming gesture serves as a reminder of the power of kindness and the difference one individual can make in the lives of others. As he continues to share meals and uplift those struggling, he hopes that his efforts will encourage more people to join in the cause.