E-Malt.com News article: USA, IL: Homewood Brewing Co. to hold grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony on October 18

On Friday, October 18th, Homewood Brewing Co. will officially open its doors in Homewood, Illinois, with a grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony, Craft Brewing Business reported on October 14.

Founded by Carmela Wallace in honor of her son, the late rapper Jarad “Juice WRLD” Higgins, the brewery aims to be a vibrant community hub for craft beer, music and great food. The brewery is located at 18225 Dixie Hwy, Homewood, Illinois, and promises to offer a unique, creative space dedicated to Juice WRLD’s legacy.

Juice WRLD, born Jarad Higgins, rose to fame at just 19 with his introspective music that candidly explored themes of addiction and mental health. His career was cut short by his untimely passing in 2019, but his influence remains strong through his music and this new venture. The creation of Homewood Brewing is a tribute to his legacy and a testament to the community that supported both him and his family.

Homewood Brewing’s head chef, Robert Lauderdale, is drawing inspiration from Juice WRLD’s roots, offering a menu of upscale comfort food infused with Creole flavors. Additionally, Brian Wallace, Juice WRLD’s brother, will lead the brewing team, combining seasonal ingredients and innovative brewing techniques to produce an array of craft beers for guests to enjoy.

Beyond food and drink, the brewery will also give back to the community. A portion of proceeds from the brewery’s benefit beer will be donated to Live Free 999, a foundation created by Carmela Wallace in honor of her son to address mental health challenges and substance dependency.

For brewers, this partnership between a craft brewery and a charitable foundation is a strong example of how businesses can align with meaningful causes. By supporting local community initiatives and collaborating with charitable organizations, breweries can not only grow their brands but also foster positive community relationships.

Partnerships like the one between Homewood Brewing and Live Free 999 can serve as a model for other craft breweries. Collaborations with local charities or educational institutions can offer breweries unique opportunities to engage with their community while giving back. Breweries should consider teaming up with agricultural research organizations for hop innovations, charitable organizations for mental health awareness or local food purveyors to highlight regional ingredients. These partnerships can create new avenues for growth, while also deepening community ties and enhancing brand reputation.

Homewood Brewing’s grand opening on October 18th will feature tours, a public celebration and exclusive access to try their flagship beers. Be sure to visit if you’re in the area to experience this heartfelt tribute to Juice WRLD, while enjoying some top-notch craft brews.


14 October, 2024