Eighth Annual Thanksgiving Community Feast

By Jennifer L. Warren

NEWBURGH – It’s a winning recipe for a happy holiday for so many: forming bonds, interacting with neighbors, feeling a part of community and enjoying a holiday meal together. These are just a few of the driving forces behind Vesuvio’s Ristorante and Papaleo’s Auto Body Inc. Annual Newburgh Community Feast.

Thursday, inside of the gymnasium, basement area of the Sacred Heart School, a revolving tally of around 75 people enjoyed a beautiful Thanksgiving meal, complete with all of the traditional foods, along with a wide selection of warm clothing to choose from, holiday music and volunteer cheer as well as priceless company and conversation. For the eighth year, two Newburgh long-standing businesses: Vesuvio’s Ristorante, and Papaleo’s Auto Body Inc. held their Newburgh Community Feast.

Members of both families and businesses could be seen in the kitchen area, serving up heaping portions of freshly sliced turkey and homemade mashed potatoes and stuffing , topped off with a ladle of gravy, macaroni and cheese, mixed vegetables, yams, cranberry sauce, and a roll. Other volunteers were assisting at a drink station, laden with a wide variety of beverages as well as lending a hand at the dessert area, chock-filled with assorted fruit, pumpkin, pecan, coconut and lemon meringue homemade pies.

“We are trying to provide some socialization, togetherness and a hot meal during the holiday season said one of the Papaleo family members. “We have been established in the community for over 30 years, so we have a big connection with it, and love to give back and see it flourish and be joyful.

That “paying it forward” mission has extended throughout the familial generations. Collecting meal tickets as well as overseeing the beverage table was a group of smiling, helpful youth. Several of the young volunteers have been involved for a large portion of the mainstay, annual holiday event.

“The best part is seeing the looks on people’s faces and how grateful they are, said 7th grader, Giuliana Papaleo, who was helping out for the third year. “Volunteering is just really fun to do.”

Also enjoying the special day were another young trio, providing an ensemble of colorful, Rockland Bakery pie slices as well as making sure the nearby coffee urn was fully flowing.
“I look forward to doing this every year, said Gianna Walker, who is 17 years old. “It’s so nice to see the people here.”

She was joined by her sister, Stevie Walker, as well as Kyle McCarey, all who have been delivering desserts, smiles and joy at the Community Thanksgiving Feast since its inception eight years ago.

“Over the years, we have really made a lot of connections with the people here who are just so nice and appreciative.” said Stevie. “I have come to realize how fortunate we are, and how happy it makes us to share our fortune with others.”

In addition to the sit-down meals served inside at Sacred Heart, around 300 ones were delivered to varying residences in the Newburgh community. Each one of the diners indoors raved about the deliciousness of the food, friendly and uplifting atmosphere, and beautiful community vibe, a combination many eagerly look forward to experiencing and are deeply appreciative for each Thanksgiving.