With the federal government shutdown continuing and with it the temporary pause of SNAP benefits, two Northeast Ohio companies are using creative ways to help families through these potentially rough times.

The Rustic Grill at StoneWater is offering a free kids’ meal with the purchase of any adult entrée through Thanksgiving or until the government resumes program funding.The staff at The Rustic Grill at StoneWater in Highland Heights are rolling out the welcome mat to make sure no one is hungry.

As of last Saturday, Nov. 1, the restaurant has been offering a free kids’ meal with the purchase of any adult entrée—available for lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch through Thanksgiving or until federal SNAP funding resumes.

Meanwhile, the Children’s Museum of Cleveland (CMC) in the Midtown neighborhood is opening its doors for a Free Community Play Event this Friday, Nov. 7, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Families who live in the City of Cleveland and receive WIC, EBT, or SNAP benefits are invited to explore the Museum’s eight interactive exhibits, free of charge.

In addition to the two hours of play on Friday, each attending family will receive a free CMC family membership, offering unlimited access for a full year.

Families first
Officials at both StoneWater and the Children’s Museum say they created these offers to support families facing new financial stresses and worries about the future.

“Families across our region are facing sudden and serious food insecurity due to the disruption of SNAP benefits,” says Lindsey Neidus, StoneWater chief marketing and development officer. “Community is at the heart of everything we do. We believe every child deserves a warm meal and every family deserves a place where they feel supported—especially now.”

The Rustic Grill offer includes one free kids’ entrée and a drink, for children age 10 and under, with each adult entrée purchased. The offer is good only for dining on-site.

Neidus says this offer is about more than a meal. “We know dining out can feel out of reach right now,” she says. “Our hope is that this gesture provides support where it’s needed most.”

The Children's Museum is hosting a free Community Play Event for Cleveland families receiving government assistance on Friday, Nov. 7.Children’s Museum director of marketing and development Hattie Kotz also says museum officials wanted to find a way to relieve some of the stress.

“This event comes at a time when many families are facing reduced benefits and increased financial strain,” she says. “At CMC, we believe every child deserves the chance to play, learn, and explore. We’re committed to providing equitable access and supporting our community through meaningful, joyful experiences.”

The Community Play event, held in partnership with ThirdSpace Action Lab, will also invite families to share feedback to help shape the Museum’s future programming—ensuring that CMC’s offerings reflect the voices and priorities of Cleveland’s residents. Registration and proof of eligibility is required.

From a free meal to a free day of play, both organizations are stepping up in small but powerful ways to remind families that community support doesn’t stop in hard times.

“Every act of care, no matter how small,” says Neidus, “can make a difference when families feel the strain.”
The details:

The Rustic Grill at StoneWater

• Free kids’ meal with purchase of adult entrée
• Runs through Thanksgiving or until SNAP benefits resume
• 1 Club Drive, Highland Heights 44143 | Dine-in only | Kids 10 and under

• Friday, November 7, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
• 3813 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland
• For City of Cleveland residents receiving WIC, EBT, or SNAP
• Free with registration and proof of eligibility