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Village opens hearts, wallets to feed needy

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By Marie Rossiter, Staff Writer 7:22 PM Saturday, November 21, 2009

WAYNESVILLE —Village residents here may not want to pay more taxes, but they have a giving heart.

Weeks after voters overwhelmingly voted down an income tax proposal in the Nov. 3 election, Waynesville volunteers announced they will spend Thanksgiving Day serving others during a free, communitywide holiday dinner.

Anyone who needs a warm meal and a little company is invited to attend the dinner from 1 to 3 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 26, at the Dairy Corner in Waynesville, located at Ohio 73 and U.S. 42.

“There are many people out there right now who are working hard and just don’t have enough,” said event organizer and Dairy Corner general manager Eugene Grant. “It’s up to us, as a town, to come together and take care of them.”

A free traditional turkey dinner with all the fixings will be served to anyone who attends, Grant said. The goal is to help the community’s needy.

“Some people asked how I would know who was needy,” Grant said. “I have to trust if someone is coming to us, they are in need.”

Eight volunteer drivers will be on hand to deliver meals to local shut-ins. Up to 30 volunteers will be at the Dairy Corner to help make and serve the holiday meal. Preparations will begin Wednesday to cook the 25 turkey breasts, 15 hams and the rest of the side dishes including mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, green beans, rolls and pumpkin pie.

What started out as a solitary effort by the Dairy Corner to thank the community for its support during the summer months has grown into a cause that is pulling many people together.

“I am surprised at the reaction,” Grant said. “I’ve hung up some signs outside the store and around town. I’m getting calls from schools, businesses and people wanting to help. People are dropping by the store to donate money, which will go to the food pantry. It’s exciting to see.”

At least 25 to 30 volunteers will help Grant prepare and serve the holiday feast. The United Methodist Church will open its doors for guests if the Dairy Corner cannot accommodate enough people, Grant said. The Hometown Market in Waynesville is donating homemade rolls and pumpkin pie.

“The town is really coming together for a good cause ,” Grant said. “I’m hoping it’s the start of an annual tradition.”

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Nice article about Waynesville.

DS
12:25 AM, 11/24/2009

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Good thought. But, the RTA leadship needs a more money the their personal paychecks.

Bus Service
4:31 AM, 11/22/2009

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This is great to see communities respond. It is happening all over. Maybe RTA can provide FREE transportation in Waynesville. This will help add to its budget woes.....

good
3:42 AM, 11/22/2009

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