Boston's Homeless Get Gift Of Christmas Spirit
BOSTON (CBS) -- If you think there's no place like home for the holidays you haven't met Robin Berry.
Berry, her husband, and her niece, spend their holiday with strangers.
"This is a tradition for us now this is part of our Christmas," said Berry.
WBZ-TV's Alana Gomez reports.
That tradition is to head over to the St. Francis House and serve hundreds of homeless people a Christmas feast.
It's the 26th year for the special meal, where St. Francis transforms its dining room into a restaurant.
White linen tablecloths, flowers, and Christmas decorations create the setting, while volunteers bring guests a hot meal.
"It's my first time here on Christmas day," said Lemmie Horton, "with the atmosphere on a day like this it gives you some joy in a depressing situation. A little ray of hope."
It's 18-year-old Karina Endsley's first Christmas alone too.
"I'd be on the street," said Endsley, who was thankful for the option of a warm meal in a warm place. "The volunteers could be with their families but they're out here helping us."
More than just a meal, it's a place where family doesn't mean you have to be related.
"It's the camaraderie," said John Lyons, a former landscape architect homeless since 2007. "These are great guys out here with a good attitude."
As Berry served with a smile she reminded herself that at any moment, their situation could be switched with their guests.
"I just feel we're all very close in life to that next step that's not so great."
A reason her Christmas gift is compassion.
