ORGANIZERS SEEK DONATIONS AND VOLUNTEERS FOR THE FREE SIT-DOWN DINNER THAT PROVIDES TRADITIONAL FEAST TO MORE THAN 1,000 OF OUR NEIGHBORS IN NEED
Now in its 33rd year, Thanksgiving for Paso Robles, is once again hosting a free Thanksgiving dinner to the community of Paso Robles, where more than 250 volunteers transform Centennial Park into a virtual restaurant for more than a 1,000 of our neighbors who would normally go without a holiday meal — and organizers need your help to make it another success.
The traditional sit-down dinner takes place at Centennial Park Activity Center on Thursday, Nov. 23, 12 – 2 p.m. This extraordinary event is made possible solely by donations and volunteers. Monetary donations are greatly needed.
Over 250 volunteers are needed to assist with activities that lead up to the dinner including set-up, food preparation, serving, delivery, and clean up.
In 1984, Thanksgiving for Paso Robles was born. It all started with a small holiday dinner at the Paso Robles Senior Center for 80 people who had nowhere to spend the holiday. The event has now grown into a true community effort severing more than 1,000 people at Centennial Park.
The extensive menu includes roasted turkey, carved ham, mashed potatoes with gravy, bacon green beans, candied yams dressing, cranberries and a variety of fresh baked pies. The homemade meal is made possible by the generous donation of the Paso Robles School District’s Culinary Academy kitchen run by Chef Gregg Wangard, and scores of volunteers. In addition to the sit down dinner, volunteers deliver meals to those who are homebound.
Each year the generosity of the community grows. For the last several years New Era Barber Shop sets up in the park, offering free haircuts to anyone in need, many children included. Members of the community have also brought coats and warming kits to distribute.
“Thanksgiving for Paso Robles is a true expression of our community, bringing diverse people together to share the day with one another,” says Dave Kudija, 23-year veteran and director of the steering committee. “All are welcome, to attend and volunteer. It’s a lot of work, but it has been fulfilling to see so many work together to serve the Paso community.”
Donations can be made at eventbrite.com, checks can also be sent to Thanksgiving for Paso Robles, PO Box 662, Paso Robles, CA 93447. For more information go to @thanksgiving4paso on Facebook, ThanksgivingForPasoRobles.com, email TgforPaso@gmail.com, or call (805) 239-4137.
