Shelby Miller’s The Squeeze gives back with every bite

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — Nestled in the heart of Vicksburg, The Squeeze Juice Bar and Vegan Eatery offers more than smoothies and plant-based plates; it serves up compassion, community, and care in every bite.

Born from a personal journey with veganism, The Squeeze was founded by a husband-and-wife team who once struggled to find dining options that fit their lifestyle. Though they’ve since shifted from a strictly vegan diet, they never forgot the feeling of being overlooked.

“We opened The Squeeze to give vegans, vegetarians, and anyone looking for healthier options a place where they feel seen, fed, and welcomed,” the owner, Shelby Miller, shared. “Even though the problem isn’t ours anymore, it still matters to us.”

That empathy is the foundation of their family-run business, where every decision, from sourcing ingredients to greeting customers, reflects a shared commitment to feeding people and making them feel cared for.

“It’s not just business for us,” she added. “It’s something we believe in.”

The menu at The Squeeze reads like a love letter to intentional living. With a food philosophy rooted in respect for the body, ingredients, and cultural influences, each dish is crafted to meet people where they are while gently expanding their relationship with food.

“I’m passionate about creating food that’s approachable,” she said. “No pressure — just good food. Familiar favorites and bold flavors.”

Fan favorites include the vibrant açaí bowls, flavorful veggie quesadillas, and the signature “Vicksburger”, which is a plant-based twist on a hometown classic. Lighter options like the cucumber pasta and smoothies made with whole fruits and vegetables help busy customers bridge the gap between what their bodies need and what life allows.

“We’re supposed to be getting 4-5 servings of fruits and vegetables a day, but most people barely get 2,” she said. “That’s where we come in, whether it’s in a smoothie, juice, or wrap, we’re here to help.”

But The Squeeze isn’t just known for its food — it’s also recognized for its heart. Outside the eatery sits a simple wooden box filled with shelf-stable food, toiletries, and other essentials. It’s called the Blessings Box.

“I’ve always had a soft spot for people in need,” Shelby said, reflecting on her past efforts handing out food and blankets to the people experiencing homelessness in Georgia. “The Blessings Box felt like a way to help even when I couldn’t be there.”

More than a community pantry, the box serves as a symbol of shared humanity. It’s for anyone in need — not just the people experiencing homelessness, but the underemployed, the struggling single parent, or the person just trying to make it to payday.

“If you need something, take it. If you have something to give, leave it,” she said. “It’s a simple way to show that someone cares.”

Seeing others in the community refill the box has become one of the most meaningful parts of the journey.

“People want to help, they just need a way to do it. The Blessings Box gives them that.”

Faith is woven into every part of The Squeeze — from scriptures printed on the cups to the deep intention behind every dish.

“The world is chaotic, and life is stressful,” the owner said. “We want The Squeeze to be a place where, even just for a moment, people can feel safe, seen, and loved.”

Yet, like many entrepreneurs, her path hasn’t been without challenges , particularly health struggles that sometimes leave her relying on a cane to work. While she doesn’t always speak publicly about these issues, some regulars notice.

“I’ve had to learn to lean on the people I trust,” she said. “Having a strong, supportive team allows me to slow down when I need to so I can keep showing up for our community.”

And show up she does, not just for the customers who dine with them daily, but for travelers from Jackson, Mississippi, or even out of state, who make a point to stop at The Squeeze during their journeys. Some even celebrate birthdays there, grateful to have a space that considers their needs.

“Those are the moments I step back and say, ‘This is why we’re doing this.’ We’re not just a restaurant — we’re a much-needed option for people who often feel like they don’t have one.”

While the idea of growth is always on the horizon, the heart of The Squeeze remains centered on community and purpose.

“Right now, we’re focused on doing what we do and doing it with heart,” she said. “Wherever that leads, we’ll follow.”

The Squeeze Juice Bar and Vegan Eatery continues to redefine what it means to serve a community, not only through nourishing meals but also through a spirit of love, faith, and genuine human connection.

As the owner, Shelby Miller, so simply puts it: “Giving back doesn’t have to be complicated. It doesn’t have to be big to matter.”

The Squeeze is located at 4308 Halls Ferry Road, Vicksburg, MS.