CINCINNATI — More than 1,500 Thanksgiving meals were served at the Duke Energy Convention Center on Thursday as part of the annual Fall Feast event.
“It’s all about connecting, it’s about gratitude, it's all about letting barriers down, judgments down and just enjoying community," said Cendi Kegley, Fall Feast chair.
There's a lot of hard work and preparation that happens before the food can hit the table.
Since Fall Feast started in 2005, more than 40,000 meals have been served to the community — and the event continues to get bigger.
"Every year since COVID, we’ve increased by about 300 to 400 folks," Kegley said.
Preparing a Thanksgiving meal can be expensive, with organizers noting rising food prices have had a huge impact on the community.
"Inflation has played a big part," Kegley said. "It affects us as well, and our ability to stretch our dollars so to speak."
Over-The-Rhine resident Renee Lawson said she's very thankful for the event.
"Some people might not have or might not want to cook," she said. "You don't want to spend it by yourself.”
It takes more than 700 volunteers to make it all happen. On Wednesday, volunteers prepped 600 pounds of turkey, 1,000 pounds of green beans and 200 pies.
For them, it's more than just a free meal — it's a celebration. There was a DJ playing music, inflatables for the kids, free coats and health checkups.
"It's really just a lot of folks coming together to help feed our community and to have a place to feel loved," said volunteer Abbie Hunt.
Those wanting to donate to Fall Feast can click here.
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