The smell hits you first at Franco’s Pizza in Ilion—fresh dough, bubbling cheese, and sauce with just the right kick. But it’s the warmth of owner Danny Mendez that stays with you. Friendly and unassuming, Danny isn’t one to seek the spotlight—but his impact on the community makes him impossible to overlook.
His commitment to giving back has touched countless lives in the Mohawk Valley. One of his most beloved efforts is a summer program—available at his Ilion and Westmoreland locations—that offers children a free slice of pizza, a drink, and a snack, no questions asked.
As summer approaches, Danny is preparing to feed around 100 kids each day—and he could use a little help. Donations go a long way toward keeping the program running. To support his efforts, visit Franco’s Pizza Ilion on Facebook for a list of needed items to help ensure no child goes hungry this summer.
“I remember the days of trying to scrounge together a lunch with whatever I could find in the house,” Danny shared. “You’d be amazed how creative a hungry kid can get haha! I don’t want kids to have to get creative with their lunch. If you know of a kid that’s home at lunchtime, Monday through Friday 11–1, and their choices are limited… send them down here. They can get a slice, chips, and a drink for free, all school break long. This area means the world to us, and we want to make sure the next generation is happy, healthy, and ready to boost up our little community.” – Danny Mendez
Danny Mendez pictured above
That same spirit shines year-round. Each holiday season, Danny and a team of volunteers serve a free Christmas dinner and gift giveaway for families in need—feeding between 250 and 500 people and offering more than just a meal, but holiday hope. He’s also known for running dinner specials to raise funds for local individuals battling illness, proving that even a pizza place can be a lifeline.
And when school starts back up, so does Franco’s after-school program. Relaunching in the 2025–2026 school year, kids can come in to do their homework, get help, and earn “Franco’s Bucks” based on their report cards—credits they can use at the restaurant. It’s one more way Danny invests in the next generation.
Danny Mendez exemplifies what it means to give back. Through Franco’s Pizza, he’s created more than a restaurant—he’s built a community resource, a safe haven, and a reminder that kindness always has a place at the table.
