Meet Jon “Big Jon” Merrill:

Devoted husband, dad, veteran, owner of The Colossal Sandwich Shop, and our brother in Christ.

Jon was recently hospitalized with pneumonia and a blood infection. We’re hopeful for a quick recovery, but anyone who knows small family businesses knows that a hospital stay hits hard: emotionally, physically, and financially. Jon is the heart of Colossal; without him, the burden falls on his son, daughter-in-law, and one part-time cook to keep the doors open while they care for Jon, too.

If you live anywhere in Hurst-Euless-Bedford, you probably know Jon’s big smile, big sandwiches, and even bigger heart. Year after year, he’s quietly fed people who were struggling, offered discounts without hesitation, and stepped up for community drives. From school supplies to supporting pregnancy centers to traveling to Kerrville with his family to serve free hot meals after a disaster. That’s who Jon is.

Colossal isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a community table. Since opening in 2019, Jon built Colossal to serve huge, delicious food and make a difference right here at home.

They’ve weathered storms (literally), a broken AC, and multiple burglaries, including a widely reported third break-in last year, when the Bedford community rallied around them again. Through every hit, Jon chose gratitude and kept serving. FOX 4 News Dallas-Fort Worth

Why we’re raising funds

Hospital stays and recovery create new costs (medical bills, medications, time off to rest) and threaten the income that keeps both the family and the shop afloat. Our immediate goal is to lift the financial pressure so Jon can actually rest and heal, and so Colossal can keep serving the community we all love. 100% of donations go directly to Jon and his immediate family. All funds are collected through Givebutter and passed straight to the Merrill family. Salvation Home is simply hosting the fundraiser to provide structure and accountability.

How funds will be used (stewardship & transparency)

Medical expenses and recovery needs for Jon
Bridge costs to keep Colossal stable (basic payroll, utilities, critical supplies)
Emergency contingencies (e.g., equipment repairs)
Any remaining funds will continue to support the family and essential shop operations during recovery.

How you can help today

Donate any amount.
Share this page - your share matters.
Pray for swift healing, strength, and peace for the Merrill family.

On behalf of Salvation Home church family: Thank you. You’ve backed Jon before; together, we can make sure he heals well and Colossal stays open for the neighbors it has faithfully served.

“This is the best community in the world.” - Jon, after the community rallied following a break-in.

(Organized by Salvation Home, Bedford, TX - in coordination with the Merrill family.)

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I can’t give, how else can I help? Share the link, pray, and visit Colossal when they’re able to open - your presence matters!

Stand with “Big Jon”: Keep Colossal Serving Our Community

Together we can cover medical bills, relieve family stress, and keep the doors of The Colossal Sandwich Shop open.