The holidays are about giving, and that’s exactly what volunteers at St. Matthew’s House Campbell Lodge did on Wednesday.
About 500 people were served a warm holiday meal, complete with surf and turf, green bean casserole, potatoes, bread, salad, and pie.
“There's a lot of people out there that may not have family. They may not have plans for Christmas,” said Zachary Miller of St. Matthew’s House. “This is the holiday season, which is amazing, but at the same time, very dark and sad for some people. So really, all we are trying to do is just provide a sense of community.”
The annual event was a way to spread holiday cheer and make sure no one went hungry on Christmas Day. Dozens of volunteers worked to prepare and serve the meals.
Donald Groover, who is part of the recovery program at St. Matthew’s House, lent a hand in the kitchen.
“Yeah, it was good. I cooked the steaks the other day— 700 of them,” Groover said.
For Groover, the event was about more than just a meal. He said it was part of his journey to recovery and giving back.
“It's just a new beginning for our lives of recovery. We were all inspired and encouraged by one another. So it’s just really blessings that the facility gave us — a great plan for your future," Groover said.
Inside the dining room, the Christmas spirit was alive and well as people enjoyed their meals and the sense of community.
“Well, I come to enjoy myself and to participate in all that’s happening here. And I love it,” said Dorothy Blackmore. “This is what we ought to do during Christmas and all the time.”
Barbara Saltarelli, another visitor, said it felt "like you're with family and friends."
"I enjoy it. Feels good,” she said.
Anyone and everyone was welcome from noon to 4 p.m.