The ABCD North End/West End Neighborhood Service Center (NE/WE NSC) held its annual Thanksgiving luncheon last week. The turnout was impressive, with nearly 70 seniors from both the North End and West End neighborhoods enjoying a traditional repast of turkey, sides, and pie. NE/WE NSC Advisory Board Chair Andres Molina helped with serving the hungry crowd. Also in attendance were NE/WE NSC Advisory Board Members Victor Brogna, as usual on trumpet, and Gisella di Paola of Eagle Bank. Mark Bernier, a former volunteer computer instructor, assisted with meal serving and preparation.
State Senator Joe Boncore visited with his legislative aide to wish his constituents a happy Thanksgiving, and to donate some much-needed gift cards for the purchase of turkeys. City Councilor Elect Lydia Edwards dropped in to say hello as well – the center congratulates her on her appointment and looks forward to working with her! Senator Sal Di Domenico, Representative Aaron Michlewitz, City Councilor Sal La Mattina, and City Councilor Josh Zakim could not attend personally due to scheduling conflicts, but all chipped in with a compassionate donation of turkeys, gift cards, and monetary donations for the seniors, families, and English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) learners that the North End/West End NSC serves.
Lastly, the center gratefully acknowledges Greg and Caryn Antonelli of GTA Landscaping; Steven Colarusso of Antonio’s Cucina Italiana in the West End; Al and Maryann Giorgio of La Famiglia Giorgio’s; and Mary Guarino and the team at Church on the Hill for turkey donations. Regina Cleri for the fourth year in a row organized a food drive to stock the center’s food pantry shelves, as did the Law Offices of DLA Piper and Strada 234. Thanks to all mentioned and many more, no one who came to the center’s doors went without for Thanksgiving! All served had a hearty meal at the luncheon with turkeys and food to take home to enjoy in the following days.
This year the NE/WE NSC saw an increase in the need for turkeys and food donations to provide holiday meals and holiday baskets for seniors. They remain especially thankful to elected officials, businesses, and donors for their support. Simply put, with the outpouring of love, support, and kindness from their communities, the NE/WE NSC provided nourishment for the body and soul to all who knocked on their doors for a Thanksgiving feast or other assistance. Without you, none of this would have been possible. The NE/WE NSC extends its deepest thanks to you. Happy Holidays to all!
