By JOYANNA LOVE/ Senior Staff Writer

Maplesville— Valle Grande Mexican Grill is planning a community fundraiser to help the Epperson family pay medical bills.

Although ordinarily closed on Sundays, Valle Grande Mexican Grill will be open on April 23 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. with all proceeds going to the Eppersons.

Owner Sergio Sanchez said he found out about the need while preparing for the Maplesville Heritage Day and talking to organizer Christine Epperson.  Christine’s husband Ray has heart problems and is going through treatment.

“She is really popular in the town because she does so much for the town,” Sanhcez said.

According to the Valle Grande Facebook page, “We are closed for business every Sunday because we believe Sundays are for God and spending time with the family, but sometimes we get touched by the great forces and we feel like this is our job to give a hand with our brothers and sisters and especially with our community.”

Sanchez said the menu will be three soft or hard tacos, either chicken or beef, with rice and beans for $8. A drink, chips and cheese will also be included. Children will eat for free.

“Hopefully, this will be a way for the restaurant to help this family,” Sanhcez said.

The Eppersons will be at the event.

A donation has already been made to the restaurant for the family through a customer at the Selma location, even though it will not be participating in the Sunday event

Sanchez said the restaurant looks for ways to give back to the community each year. At the Selma location, this has included taking food to a nursing home.

The Valle Grande Mexican Grill is located at 9417 AL Hwy 22 across from the town hall.