‘Come be a guest at our house’: Restaurant serves free Thanksgiving meals to those in need
By Bethany Cates
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GREENSBORO, North Carolina (WXII) — There was only one rule for the annual community Thanksgiving meal at Luxe Soulfood & Cocktails in Greensboro, and that was simply to show up.
The whole goal was to ensure everyone who walked through the door was able to receive a warm home-cooked meal with no questions asked, no requirements and no barriers.
For almost a decade, the community gathering has fed over 200 people each year, providing a sense of belonging in downtown Greensboro.
“It’s a continuation of meeting the needs of the people right where they are,” said Monica Stimpson, CEO of CareLink Solutions, Inc., a partner for the event.
Between the hours of 4 and 6 p.m. Monday evening, anyone could come in, enjoy a free meal, good music and fellowship.
“We were able to bring together what we were already doing on a day-to-day basis and expand the capacity of what we’re doing, joining hearts and compassion together,” said Stimpson.
Chris Gregory Sr. is the operating partner at Luxe, and he said the event was all about showing love to everyone who walked through the door, no matter their situation.
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“Make sure they feel like a person, when they leave here, that’s the most important part, is some people just need a conversation, a handshake, and a hug, so we try to do that,” said Gregory Sr.
Gregory’s son also joined in on the volunteer efforts, and he said he loves seeing a smile on everyone’s faces as they come through the line.
“Well, my favorite thing about doing it is I’m seeing new people, and I’m happy to see them having a good time,” said Gregory Jr.
And while some said this might be the only meal they receive this Thanksgiving holiday, they were thankful to eat it with those who made them feel at home.
“We’re very welcoming, come be a guest at our house,” said Gregory Sr.
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