What’s cooking on Thanksgiving Day?
HHC offers community meal

By Tiffany Allison

Thanksgiving: A communal holiday solely devoted to stuffing, and not just turkeys and stomachs, but hearts, as well.

The holiday season represents a time of compassion and care for others, whether they are family, friends or strangers.

The Hunger and Health Coalition (HHC) exhibited the principle of Thanksgiving 23 years ago, when the organization started its annual Community Thanksgiving Dinner.

This year’s feast will be served on Thursday at First Baptist Church on East King Street from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m.

The Thanksgiving meal is open to anyone who needs a place and a community to dine with on the holiday.

More than 250 people enjoyed a free meal last year, and Compton Fortuna, executive director of HHC, expects the same turnout this year.

“Our staff looks forward to this event every year – it has become an important part of my own family’s Thanksgiving tradition,” she said. “When you see the families come in to eat and the excitement in the children’s faces, it is really heartwarming.”

Makotos Seafood and Steakhouse of Japan, Woodlands Barbecue and the Speckled Trout Café are catering this year’s banquet. Woodlands is donating smoked turkeys with trimmings, the Speckled Trout is fixing the stuffing, and Makoto is providing the carrots. HHC is looking for help from the community to provide the desserts. For more information about donating desserts, contact Kim Winebarger, the event coordinator for HHC.

“We are so fortunate to have the support from many restaurants in our community who contribute to the Thanksgiving Dinner year after year,” Winebarger said. “We are all looking forward to the feast provided by Woodlands, Makoto’s and the Speckled Trout Café.”

Last year, HHC delivered around 100 meals to those unable to make it to First Baptist to eat. Fortuna explained that clients who are homebound or lack transportation may call and request deliveries. Volunteer drivers are sent to deliver the meals to homes all over Watauga County. Volunteers also contribute their time to prepare and serve the meals.

“We have seen an increase in those in need, as well as those willing to help,” Fortuna said. “It is very moving to see the many volunteers who return year after year to spend their Thanksgiving with those in need.”

Those interested in donating desserts or clients who need meals delivered should contact Kim Winebarger at (828) 262-1628.