St. Mary Parish in Elyria, Ohio, marked its annual Thanksgiving celebration on November 27, 2023, by hosting a free community lunch. This tradition, which also includes meals on Christmas Day and Easter, aims to foster togetherness and provide a warm meal for those in need.
According to organizer and volunteer Jerry Schill, the community lunch serves as a vital resource. He expressed, “We’re trying to cater to everybody. They couldn’t be more grateful for everything – we’re here serving them, and they’re participating as much as they can.”
Guests could choose from home delivery, takeout, or dine in, enjoying a menu that featured turkey, green bean casserole, mashed potatoes, salad, rolls, and a selection of handmade desserts. The event anticipated serving between 550 and 650 meals by the end of the day.
Schill noted a surge in demand this year, attributing it to the challenging economic and political environment. “It’s been really steady – we’ve seen a greater demand so far already today,” he said, highlighting the importance of these meals during difficult times.
Volunteer Efforts Make It Possible
The community meal relied on the efforts of approximately 100 volunteers, who took on various roles, including serving guests in the dining area. Meals were served on china plates in the decorated gym of St. Mary School, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Schill reflected on the origins of the community lunch, which started about 17 years ago as a way to instill the values of volunteerism in his children. “It started out with, ‘Be the change you hope to see,’ so we had a lot of kids early on that were really, really active,” he explained. Over the years, the initiative has grown, drawing in volunteers not only from his family but also from the church and wider community.
“This is all volunteers – it has been for the last 17 years,” Schill stated, underlining the communal spirit that the event has fostered. The initiative not only provides nourishment but also strengthens community bonds, demonstrating the impact of collective effort and generosity.
As the Thanksgiving meal wrapped up, the atmosphere remained filled with gratitude and camaraderie, showcasing the enduring importance of community support during the holiday season.
