It’s not every day that residents can go out and simply enjoy a meal at one of their favorite local restaurants and make a difference in the community with their meal ticket.

But those days do come at least once a month through the Let’s Eat program of the Pike County Chamber of Commerce education committee.

“Let’s Eat supports our P.R.A.I.S.E. scholarships,” said Dana Sanders, Chamber president. “Participating restaurants give 10 percent of the day’s proceeds to the scholarships, which are awarded to the highest ACT winners at our area high schools. Not only does it support our local businesses, but it supports continuing education of local students. It’s an easy way for people to enjoy a good meal and support the community at the same time.

The program is the sole funding source for the scholarships, and thanks to the participation of local restaurants and the community, enough money has been given in past years to support two additional scholarships, named after local education legends Hank Jones and Betty Wagoner, for students who meet certain community service criteria.

The next Let’s Eat program will be hosted at Preston’s on Thursday, September 12 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. This is the third time the restaurant has hosted the program in 2019 alone.

“We greatly appreciate owner Robbie Richburg and his generosity in always agreeing to help host these,” Sanders said.

Other restaurants that have participated this year include Sips on the Square, Santa Fe Cattle Company, Julia’s Restaurant, Crowe’s of Brundidge and Marco’s Pizza.