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Since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, first responders and those in the medical field have been working around the clock to help their communities deal with the outbreak.

This has led to people and companies around the country to thank those working. Around Chambers and Troup Counties, there are signs thanking those in the profession.

Waffle House has also joined to thank those workers, as the restaurant chain started the Adopt-A-Meal program.

The program, which started in Louisiana, allows for people in the community to buy a meal for first responders and medical professionals.

“It was just to take care of the community, and those first responders that are putting their lives on the line to take care of the country,” Waffle house division manager Eric Mooney said. “We just wanted to donate the food to them.”

At the cost of $8, a person can purchase a meal. Once the store has at least 10 meals, it will reach out to local first responders, asking what they want to eat. They can order anything off of the menu. Once the orders are placed and cooked, they are delivered.

“It’s all about taking care of the people taking care of us right now,” Mooney said.

The Adopt-A-Meal program started a week ago nationally but started this past Saturday locally.

In that short time, local Waffle Houses have donated more than 100 meals between Valley and LaGrange. The donated food has gone to West Georgia Hospital, Summit Urgent Care and the sheriff’s department.

“To get that type of response in just two days, it’s been awesome,” Mooney said.

To participate in the program, call or visit a Waffle House and place an order. If you want a meal to go to a specific group of responders or medical professionals, let the cashier know at checkout.