Smith has been working at McAlister’s Deli for two years and is well known in his local community for his sweet demeanor, hard work and loyalty, but, most importantly, for his warm heart and big smile. 

Many residents can recall when a horrible tornado ripped through Central Mississippi in 1992. Smith, nine-years-old at the time, was thrown in the air when 200 mile-per-hour winds tore through his mobile home. He has never been the same. Smith lost his right arm, lost vision in one eye, and was left mildly retarded. Smith also lost his mother to the storm. However, he has overcome these hardships and continues to shine as a valuable member of his community and employee of McAlister’s Deli.

“Jason is a hard worker and a great employee,” said Beckham. “He does so much for the restaurant by just being his happy self. Our guests really love him!”

McAlister’s Deli is a quick/casual restaurant chain featuring efficient counter ordering, attentive table service, high-quality deli-style foods (sandwiches, spuds and salads) and great price value. With a strong expansion strategy in place, McAlister’s Deli currently has over 220 restaurants operating in the United States. Sales are estimated to surpass $260 million in 2006 and $330 million in 2007.  

At the restaurant, Smith works 20-24 hours-per-week bussing tables, running food and dealing with guests. “I like working, being around people and doing what I can to help. It makes me feel good,” said Smith.

In return, McAlister’s Deli and the Brandon community are doing what they can to help Smith. While Mississippi Rehabilitation is picking up the tab for arm rehabilitation, McAlister’s Deli is paying for the Dynamic Arm, a revolutionary prosthetic arm which costs between $70,000 and $80,000.

“We are lucky to have such a great employee working with us,” said Patrick Walls, senior vice president of McAlister’s Deli. “Through a team effort, we will be able to help Jason get the arm he has been wishing for.”

Through tips and donations, McAlister’s Deli in Brandon has already raised about $9,000. While they continue to hold promotions like bake sales at the restaurant, the company is going a step further.

In December, McAlister’s Deli is hosting the Four Man Scramble in Mississippi, a charity golf fundraiser in honor of Jason Smith. All proceeds go towards the cost for Jason’s new prosthetic arm.

McAlister’s Deli Corporation will be donating a significant amount to Jason’s fund.  McAlister’s Deli locations everywhere are making a pledge to this fund as part of the McAlister’s family.

Smith will be the first person in Mississippi to receive the Dynamic Arm.  Smith will finally be able to do things he has not been able to do for a long time, which will help him increase his responsibilities at McAlister’s Deli. Smith has always dreamed of working in the kitchen. But strict regulations - like simply having to wear gloves, restrict him from doing so. With his new arm, he may soon be able to help out in the kitchen.