Cook the turkeys, and they will come.
For the 14th straight year, Parchester Village community leaders held a Thanksgiving Feast for families in need, serving 223 meals on Saturday at the Parchester Village Community Center at 900 Williams Drive.
The event typically occurs the weekend before Thanksgiving Day, providing families an additional opportunity to enjoy a hearty, free meal.
Goretha Johnson, president of the Parchester Village Neighborhood Council, and Ivonne Malave, Recreation Leader at the community center, served roughly 40 meals when they launched the event 14 years ago. Word of mouth helped the event to grow.
Guests include individuals and families from Parchester Village and surrounding communities, including homeless community members.
“It only takes one person to know we’re doing, and it spreads,” Malave said.
The 14th event started off quiet, but at about 1:45 p.m to 2 p.m. folks began streaming in. The team behind this project was prepared for them.
“I’m already planning the 15th year,” Malave said.
The Thanksgiving Feast is made possible through donations. Malave gave special recognition to First Baptist Church and Greater El Bethel Baptist Church, as well as SeQuential, a Richmond-based biodiesel producer with a facility nearby, for their support of the event. She said SeQuential has been “incredible when it comes to support.”
Currently, the community center is raising funds for its 14th Annual Christmas Giveaway on Dec. 19 providing cheer with a visit from Santa Claus, toys for children and fun activities such as cupcake decorating.
Anyone wishing to donate can contact Malave at (707) 208-0921 or email bx@[email protected]. Donations must be made by Dec. 16.
