May’s Kitchen and more than 20 community partners will host a free Thanksgiving dinner Wednesday to support families still recovering from the recent federal government shutdown, a press release announced.
The dinner will take place from 5 to 9 p.m. at Emancipation Garden on St. Thomas and is expected to serve between 500 and 1,000 people, with priority for SNAP recipients, according to the press release.
May Leader, founder of May’s Kitchen, said the shutdown left lasting impacts on households across the territory. “The recent shutdown didn’t just disrupt services on the mainland. It sent shock waves through households right here in the Virgin Islands,” she said. “Families who depend on SNAP benefits faced sudden gaps that created real hardship. While the shutdown has ended, many are still catching up financially. We wanted to do something tangible to ease that burden during the holiday season.”
Three chefs — Chef Benji of Blue11 and Indigo4, youth chef Alexandre from the British Virgin Islands, and Chef Cory Baker of Barefoot Buddha — will prepare a full Thanksgiving meal. The menu includes turkey, ham, salmon, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie. Vegetarian dishes such as lentil soup, vegetable lasagna and tofu options will also be available, the press release stated.
Entertainment will be provided by The Elijhaie Braithwaite Project, the release stated.
Medical partners include the Virgin Islands Center for Integrative Medicine, the Chiropractic Health Center and the St. Thomas East End Medical Center. Dr. Richards of the East End Medical Center said their participation focuses on both physical and emotional support. “Moments of connection and shared support are essential for mental health, especially during times of added stress,” he said. “We believe caring for our community means supporting both physical and emotional well-being.”
Sponsors include the Virgin Islands Center for Integrative Medicine, St. Thomas East End Medical Center, Viking Corporation, Tap & Still, Smith’s Barbershop, Blue11, Indigo4, St. Thomas Social, Creative Marketing, Leader’s Auto Repair, Antilles School, UVI Social Group, PriceSmart, Soul to Sole, VIPD, Government House, Lucky Jewelry, Artistic Jewelry and Barefoot Buddha and countless others, according to the release.
Leader said the partners involved show the strength of the community.
The event is free and open to the public, with no RSVP required. SNAP recipients are encouraged to bring their benefit cards for priority seating.
Event details
What: Thanksgiving Community Dinner
When: Wednesday, 5 to 9 p.m.
Where: Emancipation Gardens, Charlotte Amalie
Who: Open to all; SNAP recipients receive priority
Cost: Free
More information is available at www.mayleadervi.org.
St. Croix Source
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