.jpg)
A family-owned restaurant in downtown Steinbach turned into a hub of love and generosity on Wednesday, as MJ’s Cafe sold out of their special “Tasha Burger” fundraiser in support of 34-year-old Tasha Wiese, a local woman facing a life-changing medical journey after suddenly falling ill.
Tasha's uncle, Bryan Bartel, owner of MJ’s, came up with the idea to sell a burger and fries combo for $25, with every single dollar going directly toward Tasha’s rehab and expenses.
By mid-morning on Wednesday, Bartel realized just how generous a community he lived in.
“We had to call it at about 10 am already,” Bartel said about the overwhelming response. “We had so many pre-orders. Companies were ordering like 25, 40 burgers… It was just incredible. And we wanted to leave some for people dining in, too. So we decided to call it.”
Bartel says the café sold over 500 burgers, and believes they could have easily sold double that.
“You should’ve seen our kitchen,” Bartel said proudly of his staff. “They were like a machine, just unbelievable. Some of them volunteered to help out, after their shifts just to help. It was humbling.”
Even though the burgers sold out early, customers kept coming.
“People were so gracious when we told them we were sold out. They’d say, ‘We just wish you all the best. This is an awesome problem to have.’ Many still dropped off donations, and we had to empty the donation bucket a few times. It was just overwhelming, in the best way.”
One moment that stuck with Bartel was a customer who walked in with his entire trucking bonus, saying, “Here, I want you to have this.” Another staff member gave two weeks’ worth of tips. And another man, struggling financially, still managed to donate $100.
“It gives you faith in humanity all over again. I did my part, but some of these folks gave even more, with what little they had. It’s humbling.”
Tasha’s family was deeply moved by the support.
“I texted my brother last night,” Bartel said, referring to Tasha’s dad. “They were so appreciative. The first word they sent back was, ‘Wow!’”
In a video posted to Facebook, Bartel thanked the community:
“We were just blown away by the community support. We sold over 500 burgers. My mom’s cakes, they all sold too. This is all for Tasha. Tasha, we love you, and we just wish you the best and hope you continue moving forward.”
As for what’s next, Bartel says the plan is to visit Tasha in Winnipeg with his mom and deliver some of the good news in person.
“This is going to be a tough road, but I think what people showed yesterday was that Tasha’s not walking it alone,” he said.