Tiki Tiki Thai Cuisine is providing free meals to everyone in first responder and active Military roles on Sunday, May 3, between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Qualified first responders may pick up meals by dropping by during the giveaway. For teams that require multiple meals and who cannot get away, a single team member may call ahead and order meals for one person to pick up for their teams at hospitals, doctor’s offices, police and fire stations, EMS teams, military, National Guard, or other essential services teams.

“This is completely free and coming from our hearts to thank our community for what they are doing to make and keep us safe,” said Ponompon Jares, owner and creator of Tiki Tiki Thai. “We so appreciate our healthcare workers, police officers, firefighters, paramedics and on-duty military personnel who are committed to our health and safety. Tiki Tiki Thai Cuisine will ‘feed you for free’ as a token of appreciation for your selfless service.”

Meals can be picked up at Tiki Tiki Thai’s Kahului restaurant at 395 Dairy Road and at the restaurant’s Wharf Cinema Center location in Lahaina. Business owners say the restaurants offer “COVID-safe” preparation and pickup stations. There is no need to call ahead for individuals picking up a meal for themselves or immediate family. Responders must be in uniform or have their valid ID visible, and be wearing a facemask.

Tiki Tiki Thai specializes in authentic Thai dishes and has been serving Maui for more than 12 years.

“So many of our regulars are already in healthcare and essential services and they have been so supportive of our daily pickup and delivery during these hard times,” said James.  “My family and I wanted to make a statement that we are really grateful for their sacrifice and a percentage discount just didn’t do it. My daughter suggested we just think of all of Maui’s essential care and protection workers as our very own ʻohana and just give away the entire meal for all without any cost or obligation. In Thai culture, as in Hawaiian culture, there is a sense and directive of ‘pono’ – to do what’s right. This is what is right for our community.”

For groups desiring meals for 10 or more workers, Tiki Tiki Thai requests that one group member call ahead before May 3 to place their order for the number of people at their location. For Lahaina pre-orders call (808) 661-1919. For Kahului pre-orders call (808) 893-0026. All orders will be full meals and dishes offered will be the selection of the restaurant.

Menu items can be viewed online at www.TikiThaiMaui.com.