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Hundreds Prep for Thanksgiving Community Dinner

Hundreds Prep for Thanksgiving Community Dinner - Tuesday, November 24, 2009 at 5:00PM EST

Reported by: Kyla Campbell
Tuesday, Nov 24, 2009 @ 05:00pm EST

SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA COUNTY -- It takes hundreds of volunteers all day to prepare dinner for 2,000 guests.

Dozens of potato peelers showed up an hour ahead of schedule.

"They do the peeling, and I do the cutting," said Nick Blanichka of Dalton, referring to his female co-workers. We asked him who had the easier job. He laughed, "I do."

Others are folding napkins and setting tables.

"It's important to help because a lot of people need it in our community," said James Manning, who was with a group of student volunteers from Northeast Intermediate School.

It's all for the Thanksgiving Community Dinner put on by "Friends of the Poor."

"When you have everything you want and there are people who don't, you need to give," said Mary Grace of Dunmore.

And that's exactly why the founder of "Friends of the Poor" started this community dinner 33 years ago. Sister Adrian Barrett has retired, but she showed up to help.

"Every little bit helps," said Sr. Barrett. "I'm sure this dinner tonight will help."

It takes a lot of food and hard work to feed 2,000 people. People are peeling 750 pounds of potatoes. They'll cook 1,000 pounds of turkey, 400 pounds of stuffing, 80 gallons of gravy, and 400 pumpkin pies.

"All this is being done for our guests," said Sr. Maryalice Jacquinot, the new director of "Friends of the Poor." "They're very welcome and important to our community."

She says Tuesday night's Thanksgiving dinner fills more than just stomachs.

"Spiritually nourished and nourished in mind and heart," she said. "Maybe a happy memory for somebody who won't otherwise have one this week."

Doors open tonight at 5:30 at the Scranton Cultural Center, and dinner is served at 6pm. Close to 2,000 people are expected.

Then, right back here Wednesday morning, "Family to Family" will give out 2,800 baskets with Thanksgiving meals to those who need it.

You don't have to be registered for Tuesday's meal or Wednesday's food basket giveaway. If you or someone you know is in need of a Thanksgiving meal, organizers encourage you to come out.
 


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