The Lombardo Family's Annual Feast Continues To Bring Family Feel
RANDOLPH (CBS) -- It's a Thanksgiving gathering worth noting, where those who might not otherwise have an opportunity can feast.
More than four decades ago, the Lombardo family, owners of the event space Lombardo's, had the idea of giving back. They started serving a free Thanksgiving dinner to seniors. This year, the family registered more than 800 seniors ready to eat together as a family.
"The warmth that you feel the moment that you walk in is wonderful," one attendee said.
"It is so wonderful," another said.
The guest list of seniors and those in need has grown over the years, and the list of volunteers has too.
"You see a lot of people that this is their day, here," Charles Foley, the retired Randolph Fire Chief, said. Foley has recruited other firefighters over his 16 years volunteering at the dinner. "To share in a community activity that benefits many, many hundreds of people."
After hours of meal preparation and donations from vendors, a four-course turkey day feast is served.
"Green bean casserole, home made stuffing, butter braised carrots," one cook listed off the menu.
It's the least general manager David Lombardo's family can do.
"It really hits our souls and our hearts to be able to make the community feel so good," Lombardo said.
And that's what it's all about: Warming the hearts of others, giving everyone a sense of belonging.
"They really know how to treat the people nice," one diner said.
On Thanksgiving day, there's no better way to spend it than surrounded by love.
The Lombardo family also donated 200 meals to non-profit organizations so they can provide dinner for their communities.
