Our Lady of Perpetual Help Hosts Community Harvest Dinner

Submitted by: Toni K. Gaines, LOC of Archdiocese of Washington, D.C.

On Saturday, November 21, 2020, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church’s Ladies of Charity, Women’s Ministry, Health Ministry and Sodality collaborated with the non-profit organization Martha’s Table and others for their 4th Annual Community Harvest Dinner located in the parking lot at 1600 Morris Road, SE, Washington, DC.

Due to COVID-19, the dinner was a grab-n-go drive-through and walk-up service. There were approximately 2,500 dinners served to the community outdoors with mask wearing and safe social distancing observed. Over 150 volunteers worked to prepare and distribute dinners from 10:00 am—4:00 pm to the community. The dinners included roast turkey, dressing, gravy, macaroni & cheese, green beans, candied sweet potatoes, rolls, sweet potato pie, and drink. Additionally, each bag contained a package of masks and hand sanitizer.

Thanks to Pastor, Very Rev. Michael Thompson, SSJ for his commitment to providing food for those in our community and working to ensure that the dinner took place as well as Donna Hawkins for being the lead coordinator. Gratitude and blessings to all the volunteers who gave of their time, talent and treasure in making this event a success!