Pancakes are free Tuesday at Newark’s International House of Pancakes, which will use the event to feed the homeless — and ask patrons in
return to make a donation to the Children’s Miracle Network. The promotion celebrates Pancake Day, also known as Shrove Tuesday, when cupboards were traditionally emptied of eggs and flour in preparation for Ash Wednesday, which marks the start of Lent. Free short stacks will be given away at the Bergen Street restaurant between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m., according to a news release. The Newark IHOP’s owner, Sobhy Addelhady, said he plans to use the event also to feed people who are currently using Newark’s homeless shelters, including youth being served by Covenant House. Patrons who come for the free pancakes will be asked for a $1 donation for the Children’s Miracle Network, which supports more than 700 children’s hospitals. According to the release, the Newark IHOP already has exceeded the restaurant’s goal of collecting $500 in donations. The entire California-based chain last year raised $875,000 nationally for the children’s organization.
A similar promotion on Feb. 3 by competitor Denny’s gave away Grand Slam breakfasts to 2 million patrons, including many who welcomed the meal during the nation’s current economic difficulties.