PORT TOWNSEND — About 150 people from all walks of life gathered at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church on Wednesday for a free community Thanksgiving eve meal.
The meal was part of the church’s “Just Soup” program that serves free soup every Wednesday throughout the year.
The program, which began in 2010, always provides a full holiday meal on Thanksgiving eve, with turkey, stuffing and vegetables along with vegetarian and vegan options.
In past years, the meals have been served from the kitchen, but this year, a buffet was set up to allow more people to be served, according to church rector Dianne Andrews.
“We welcome everyone, and they can sit at linen-covered tablecloths,” Andrews said.
“It’s part of our service and connection, and it is the only turkey meal that many have.”
“Chief cook and bottle washer” Linda McKenzie said 16 turkeys ranging from 4 pounds to 14 pounds were used, with a volunteer kitchen and serving staff of 45 people.
“Look around here. It’s incredible,” McKenzie said.
“This is open to anybody, and it’s nice to be able to feed people.
“We invite everyone who wants to eat, and they all sit around and talk to each other,” McKenzie said.
McKenzie said the meal drew many people who were not Just Soup regulars.
Joey Pipia of Port Townsend attended the Thanksgiving meal at the church for the first time Wednesday, although he comes in for Wednesday soup throughout the year.
He said he likes attending because those serving meals are respectful of their guests “and don’t try to proselytize or tell us we need to find Jesus.”
Danny Milholland of Port Townsend also enjoys the meals.
“You walk in and see all these friendly faces, delicious food on a weekly basis,” Milholland said.
“It’s an excellent weekly community gathering, and this is just a climax for that.”
To donate to the program or volunteer, phone McKenzie at 360-385-0770.
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Jefferson County Editor Charlie Bermant can be reached at 360-385-2335 or cbermant@peninsuladailynews.com.
