Panera Bread offers pay what you can policy - KYTX CBS 19 Tyler Longview News Weather Sports

Panera Bread offers pay what you can policy

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CHICAGO, IL (CNN) - A national chain is helping those in need with a unique approach at the checkout. The Panera Bread Care Community Cafe just opened up a new location in Chicago and diners just pay what they can.

The food here isn't free.  The cashier tells you the suggested price for your meal. You can drop cash in the donation box or put it on your credit card. If you volunteer here for an hour, you receive a meal voucher. So far, customers love the idea, with many eager to donate.

"For me, I'm not hurting right now. I have a pretty good job, so I know there are people out there who are hurting. Any little bit helps."

"And if it's for people who are ill, or people who need money for some sort of tragedy or something, I think that it's good that we give out."

Panera Bread's Co-CEO says this is no soup kitchen, rather a place to lift people up -- providing dignity for those who might be down on their luck.

This is the St. Louis-based company's fourth community cafe and the first in Chicago. The other community cafe's are turning out pretty nice profits.

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