Thanksgiving caring

Posted 12/3/19

What's it like to be alone for Thanksgiving? That thought haunted Peter Thomas, director of advancement, at Bishop Hendricken High School. But rather than ponder the question, Thomas set out to do something about it five years ago. He rallied community

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Thanksgiving caring

HE WANTED TO RETURN: Recalling how fulfilling it was, Alex Carrillo, a member of the Class of 2017, returned Thursday to take a place on the serving line. Here he assists Florence DiCarlo.

(Warwick Beacon photos)

FINISHING ON A SWEET NOTE: Kerri Fusco-Smith, a Hendricken parent and owner of Sweet Indulgences, brought along some of her goodies for dessert. But before desserts, Kerri, who goes by the name “Cupcake,” worked the serving line.

(Warwick Beacon photos)

A WELCOME: Peter Thomas, who initiated the community Thanksgiving luncheons at the school, greets the attendees.

(Warwick Beacon photos)

ON THE KEYS : Hendricken freshman Tom Jacques played selections as the cafeteria filled with those

(Warwick Beacon photos)

Posted Tuesday, December 3, 2019 1:40 pm

What’s it like to be alone for Thanksgiving?

That thought haunted Peter Thomas, director of advancement, at Bishop Hendricken High School. But rather than ponder the question, Thomas set out to do something about it five years ago. He rallied community partners, including Job Lot, the Rhode Island Transit Authority, the Warwick Beacon, the City of Warwick, Culinart and numerous students, Hendricken parents and alumni to do something about it. On Thanksgiving he held the largest yet of Thanksgiving dinners in the school cafeteria. Between RIPTA buses and those driving themselves to the event, more than 100 were served a turkey dinner with all the trimmings.

The event is becoming a tradition for some who joined friends. There were newcomers as well and, as has been the case since the first dinner, parents and alumni manning the serving line.

Job Lot provided gloves, hats and scarves for attendees. And, appropriately, Father Robert Marciano, president of Hendricken, offered a prayer before the meal was served and Mayor Joseph Solomon brought city greetings. He also spoke about the generous gesture and how it makes for a strong and caring community.