St. Francis House hosted its XX Annual Thanksgiving Day luncheon meal with support from many volunteers including the North End’s D’Amico family, Boston Bruins Matt Beleskey and Boston Mayor Marty Walsh. More than 350 of Boston’s poor and homeless guests enjoyed their meals “restaurant style” with the assistance of more than 45 volunteers.
Boston Bruins Left Wing Matt Beleskey continued the Bruins Annual Thanksgiving Pie Delivery, visiting to deliver over 50 donated Mike’s Pastry pies for the Thanksgiving meal, and assisted in pre-slicing several pies.
Mayor Marty Walsh visited St. Francis House, met with guests and volunteers and assisted in carving turkeys. The Mayor’s annual visit has long been a special highlight for St Francis House guests.
“Thanks to local organizations like St. Francis House, many residents of Boston will receive a Thanksgiving dinner surrounded by family and members of the community,” said Mayor Walsh. “When we work together to spread goodwill and service throughout our city, we are making a difference in the lives of others. I thank all the staff members, participants and volunteers at St. Francis House for going above and beyond to lend a helping hand to those in need and ensure that every person in Boston has a happy Thanksgiving.”
St. Francis House Executive Director Karen LaFrazia led the blessing prior to commencing the Thanksgiving feast.
“We wanted to volunteer because we feel blessed and would like to give back to the community,” said volunteer Karen D’Amico of the North End. “I couldn’t think of a better time to volunteer with my children than on a day where we celebrate giving.”
To feed Thanksgiving dinner to so many of St. Francis House patrons, it takes:
· 48 turkeys (750 lbs.)
· 150 lbs of mashed potatoes
· 120 lbs of vegetables
· 130 lbs of stuffing
· 750 rolls
· 50 gallons of apple cider
· 75 pies
Thanks to our own Mike’s Pastry~~~~they are ALWAYS so generous !!
Yes, we are so grateful to our community for their support every year!