Kevin Ford, the Burger King employee who became a viral sensation in 2022 for his unwavering 27 years of service, is embarking on an exciting new chapter. Having captured hearts worldwide with his dedication, Ford is now channeling the incredible support he received into a venture close to his heart: his very own food truck business. This dream, ignited by the generosity of strangers, is set to see Ford transition from fast-food service to food truck entrepreneur, bringing his own culinary vision to life.
The heartwarming story of Kevin Ford began when a video showcasing the modest gifts he received for his nearly three decades of perfect attendance at Burger King went viral. Many viewers felt the gifts didn’t adequately recognize his remarkable commitment, prompting his daughter to launch a GoFundMe campaign. The response was overwhelming. Donations poured in, ultimately exceeding $465,000. This life-changing sum enabled Ford to achieve a significant milestone earlier this year: purchasing his first home. But for Kevin Ford, a man driven by gratitude and a desire to give back, homeownership was just the beginning.
With his foundation secure, Ford turned his attention to another long-held aspiration – owning a food truck. “I’m going to put out some good food and I’m going to go for it,” Ford shared with PEOPLE, expressing his enthusiasm for this new endeavor. This isn’t just about personal ambition; it’s about paying it forward. Ford sees his food truck, aptly named “K27Y” – a nod to his name and 27 years of service – as a way to thank the global community that rallied behind him. He aims to create not only a successful business but also a way to contribute positively to his community in Pahrump, Nevada.
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Ford’s food truck, sourced from China after discovering it through an online video, is equipped with a flat-top grill and fryer, ready to serve up delicious fare. Initially, the menu will feature classic American food truck staples like hot dogs and fries. However, Ford has exciting plans to expand the culinary offerings. He is eagerly awaiting the arrival of his fiancée from the Philippines, and once she is in the U.S., he intends to introduce traditional Filipino dishes to the menu. The vision is to create a unique fusion of American and Filipino flavors, promising a diverse and appealing culinary experience for his customers. Adding to the family affair, Ford’s daughter Seryna, a Le Cordon Bleu-trained chef, will be contributing her expertise to develop recipes and refine the menu.
While the launch date for the K27Y food truck remains unannounced, Ford is diligently preparing for his debut in the food industry. He acknowledges the learning curve involved in running a business, especially having spent his career in fast food. However, Ford’s journey is a testament to the idea that it’s never too late to pursue a new path. He embraces the challenge, stating, “I’m going to work this day and night. I’m going to study it. I’m going to do whatever I can and I’m going to have fun.” His determination and positive attitude are infectious, making his food truck venture a truly inspiring story.
The viral video that inadvertently launched this new chapter in Kevin Ford’s life stemmed from a simple act of gratitude. Encouraged by HMSHost, Burger King’s food service company, to create social media content, Ford filmed himself showcasing the goodie bag he received for his 27 years of service. His genuine appreciation for the recognition, however modest, resonated with viewers. While some criticized the gifts, Ford remained humble and grateful, a response that further endeared him to the internet. The ensuing GoFundMe, initiated by his daughter, highlighted not only his dedication but also his history as a single parent who relied on Burger King’s benefits to support his family.
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Looking ahead, Kevin Ford is balancing his preparations for the food truck launch with his continued work at Burger King, albeit on a reduced schedule due to a back issue. His ultimate goal is to transition to full-time food truck entrepreneurship and retire from Burger King once his new business becomes profitable. The journey from viral Burger King employee to food truck owner is a remarkable testament to the power of community support and the enduring appeal of the American dream. Kevin Ford’s story is a heartwarming reminder that with perseverance and a little help from others, even the most beautiful dreams can come true. The K27Y food truck is more than just a business; it’s a symbol of gratitude, community, and the exciting possibilities that life can offer, even after 27 years of loyal service at Burger King.
