Thousands gather for Thanksgiving feast, goodwill

Durham, N.C. — Hundreds of Triangle residents use Thanksgiving to celebrate with those less fortunate, a tradition that feeds the soul as well as the stomach.

"I am filled with joy to see how our community has come together to provide this wonderful meal for those who are less fortunate," said Ernie Mills, executive director of the Durham Rescue Mission.

The celebration began at the mission, at 1201 East Main St., at 10 a.m. with games and children's activities.

The mission saw record attendance in 2010, when more than 1,500 people shared in the feast. This year, more than 600 volunteers served more than 700 meals of turkey, stuffing, gravy and green beans.

Helping Hand Mission planned to serve 900 meals at 336 S. Wilmington St. in Raleigh.

Even those without transportation could partake. The Raleigh Rescue Mission prepared more than 700 meals for its Gobbles to Go program. Volunteer package and deliver the meals and a dose of holiday cheer to shut-ins, the elderly and low-income families.

In addition to the meal, volunteers donated and distributed clothes, including winter coats, and bags of groceries.

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Latest Comments

Bes tcharity organization in the Triangle by far.

dryjr
November 25, 2011 9:52 a.m.

Cool stuff. On "Restaurant Impossible" last night. Robert Irvine fixed up a non profit soup kitchen that feeds about 150 meals a day to needy people. Good show. Watch for it on re-runs.

You should look thru your pantry and donate food that you will not use by the expiration date instead of just throwing it away. But make sure it still has some shelf life left on it. I do this.

vraptor
November 24, 2011 5:43 p.m.

I feel for these folks that have nothing but the clothes on their back. Thank God they were fed a nice meal. Way to go volunteers and those who donated.