Jersey Mike's to donate 100 percent of profits on March 25
BY L.J. GAMBONE
APPLE VALLEY REVIEW
Serving up sandwiches and supporting local charities pretty much sums up the mission of the national chain Jersey Mike’s Subs, which has locations in Apple Valley and Hesperia. Adam Shamel, who owns both High Desert franchises, said for the past five years, the sub shop has dedicated the entire month of March to fundraising for hospitals, youth organizations, food banks and other worthwhile causes.
Last year’s campaign brought in over $2.1 million for more than 100 charities nationwide. Shamel said his two stores contributed $7,000 to that amount and this year, he’s confident he can double it.
“Our customers have been very supportive and I know they are going to help us reach our goal,” said Shamel, a native of San Diego. “All during March, they can purchase donation coupons for $1, $3 and $5 and all of that money will go directly to charity. Also, on March 25, I will be donating 100 percent of my sales to charity.”
Shamel said proceeds from Jersey Mike’s Month of Giving event will be donated to Steven’s Hope for Children, an Inland Empire-based charity that helps families of seriously ill or injured children by providing them with financial and housing assistance. The organization was founded in 2000 by Tony and Sandy Cappelli after losing their newborn son, Steven Joseph Cappelli, to a severe heart condition.
“My daughter Sarah was born premature at 31 weeks and my wife and I didn’t know if she was going to make it,” said Shamel, who said he plans to open three additional Jersey Mike’s Subs in the High Desert over the next three years. “We were holding on by a thread and it was a very difficult time.
“Thankfully, she pulled through and is almost 3 and in good health. But I can really sympathize with what Tony and Sandy went through, which is why I chose them for our charity both last year and this year.”
Jersey Mike’s Subs started in 1956 in Mt. Pleasant, New Jersey. Shamel said in 1984, the chain’s owner Peter Cancro decided to open up franchising opportunities for his business, which now has more than 1,300 locations nationwide.
According to a statement on www.jerseymikes.com, Cancro said making a sub sandwich and making a difference can be one and the same.
“I would like to extend a personal invitation to come in and enjoy a Jersey Mike’s sub during our Month of Giving,” said Cancro,who started the company when he was only 17 years old. “This year we hope to raise more than $2.5 million to support these local causes so we can bring hope to all those involved with the charities and make a difference in people’s lives.”
Shamel said Jersey Mike’s offers an extensive menu of East Coast-inspired sandwiches, which include provolone and ham, Philly cheese steaks and chicken parmesan. Prices range from $5 to $12, depending on size. Chips, cookies, brownies and beverages also are available.
Jersey Mike’s in Apple Valley is at 19179 Bear Valley Road, Suite 8, in the Jess Ranch Marketplace. The Hesperia location is at 13255 Main St., just east of Interstate 15. The Hours of operation for both stores are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., seven days a week.