Chris Bailey’s viral TikTok: how one man feeds Skid Row’s homeless

Long lines can be seen down the block as a Southern California food vendor serves up free hot meals to the homeless in downtown L.A.’s Skid Row. The owner, Chris Bailey, posts TikTok videos under the handle @kloverkinglosangeles, which have gone viral as long lines awaiting his food can be seen stretching down the block near 5th and San Pedro Streets. “There’s nothing more satisfying than helping somebody in need,” Bailey said.

Every Friday and Saturday, Bailey and his crew can typically be seen cooking fresh hot meals that are given to homeless residents who stop by. “It’s a blessing for the soul,” said Darlene Tillett, a Skid Row resident. “It’s a blessing.” Bailey said they serve hundreds of free meals each day and rely on the generosity of their social media followers for donations. He is thankful for the fierce support he’s received from locals, including some who have even dropped off free food when he’s running out of ingredients on a busy night. “We’ll have three or four people pulling up at a time with water, buns, hot dogs, hamburgers,” Bailey said of generous strangers. “I remember the first time I came out here. We were here until midnight and the food [deliveries] just kept coming — DoorDash, UberEats. The TikTok supporters, we wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for them.”

The Power of Social Media

Bailey’s journey is a testament to the power of social media in transforming lives and communities. His TikTok handle, @kloverkinglosangeles, has amassed a following of more than 88,000 users. His live-streams, where he showcases his culinary skills, have not only brought him fame but also a platform to make a significant impact. Bailey gained popularity after live-streaming himself cooking his specialty, decked-out breakfast burritos, outside the Van Nuys courthouse. His business, called Munchies, has since blown up, with TikTok users flocking to his spot in the Valley where he spends his mornings five days a week.

Bailey’s initiative to serve the homeless started with a simple idea: to buy and grill 200 hot dogs for the residents of Skid Row. He tossed sautéed onions and peppers onto scorched dogs topped with ketchup, mustard, and mayo. From there, the donations started pouring in. Last weekend, he served up 400 hot dogs. By Friday afternoon, he and other vendors had served 1,000 hot dogs along with plenty of hamburgers. “If they want to send food, I’ll keep cooking it as long as they send it,” Bailey said.

Community Support and Expansion Plans

Bailey’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. The support from his TikTok followers has been overwhelming, with twenty DoorDash drivers delivering groceries and other supplies ordered and paid for by Bailey’s fans. These supplies included buns, mayonnaise, hot dogs, hamburgers, foil, and plates. “Growing my livelihood through the home I’ve found on the social platform has been a blessing,” Bailey said. Over just the past few months, he’s seen his life change after years of struggling to make ends meet. “I’ve been homeless for probably five years – off and on, you know,” Bailey said. “And I started this little street food business, and thanks to TikTok, I’ve done very well.”

Bailey’s vision extends beyond just serving food. He is looking to expand his operations and eventually launch a nonprofit organization to feed even more residents who may be in need. “You live every day but you only die once,” Bailey said. “So I’m just trying to make this a purpose-filled life.” Donations to Bailey’s operations can be made on his GoFundMe page or through his TikTok profile.

Our Advice on the City

Los Angeles is a city of contrasts, where opulence and destitution coexist. For occasional travelers, a visit to Skid Row might not be on the typical tourist itinerary, but it offers a profound perspective on the city’s social fabric. Consider volunteering at local shelters or supporting initiatives like Bailey’s to make a tangible difference during your stay.

For seasoned travelers, delve deeper into the city’s community efforts. Engage with local nonprofits and social enterprises that aim to uplift the underprivileged. Your expertise and resources can contribute significantly to ongoing projects, making your travel experience not just memorable but also meaningful.

In conclusion, Chris Bailey’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have on a community. His journey from homelessness to becoming a beacon of hope on Skid Row is both inspiring and humbling. As travelers, we have the opportunity to contribute to such initiatives, making our journeys not just about exploration but also about compassion and giving back.