National nonprofit Wreaths Across America (WAA) today proudly accepted a donation of $359,567 from MISSION BBQ. This contribution was made possible thanks to the generosity of MISSION BBQ customers and their support of MISSION BBQ’s American Heroes Cups.

Today, MISSION BBQ co-founder Bill Kraus presented this donation to WAA’s executive director Karen Worcester during a special presentation in Columbia, Md., at the restaurant located at 6270 Columbia Crossing Circle. The donation will sponsor not only 21,151 veterans’ wreaths to remember our fallen U.S. service members laid to rest at 154 participating locations for placement on National Wreaths Across America Day – Saturday, December 19, 2026 – but supports the year-round mission and free programs WAA offers. 

“MISSION BBQ and its customers continue to show what it truly means to stand with our nation’s heroes,” said Karen Worcester, Executive Director of Wreaths Across America. “This generous gift is more than a donation; it is a powerful act of remembrance that helps ensure every veteran’s service is honored and their legacy lives on for generations to come.”

WAA is best known for its annual wreath-laying ceremonies throughout the United States and beyond at more than 5,500 participating locations. However, the nonprofit’s yearlong mission to Remember the fallen, Honor those who serve, and Teach the next generation the value of freedom is carried out by millions of volunteers across the country through many community programs. 

“At MISSION BBQ, we believe in giving back to those who gave so much to us. Through the generosity of our customers, we are proud to help Wreaths Across America continue its mission to Remember, Honor and Teach,” said Kraus.

American Heroes Cups are available year-round, retailing at $4.99, with $2 of every cup purchase donated to a charity supporting national military charities and local first responders. Customers are encouraged to return their American Heroes Cup during future visits to the restaurant and receive $1.49 refills. To find a MISSION BBQ location near you, visit https://mission-bbq.com/locations.

This year, Wreaths Across America Day will be held on Saturday, December 19, 2026. To find a location near you to support, please click here.