Local Nonprofit Hosts Thanksgiving Dinner For Veterans

An annual, free Thanksgiving dinner hosted by a metro nonprofit aims to thank those who have served our country.

One veteran said the organization changed his life and for him, Thanksgiving came early.

Laughter and community filled the room at Paseo Avenues annual Thanksgiving dinner.

The nonprofit focuses on helping homeless veterans by providing aid and housing, no questions asked.

One of those veterans was overwhelmed with gratitude on Saturday.

Gregory Windham said the agency is a saving grace.

"As you can see, man, this day has just opened me up," Windham said.

It's the kind of environment executive director Kim Hubbard hoped to create.

"People need to belong, they need to know they're wanted, they're needed and they're loved," Hubbard said.

She says this Thanksgiving dinner holds a special place in her heart.

"Sometimes we never know what people are missing," Hubbard said. "These people are coming from broken homes, from the streets, from under the bridges, so if we can just provide a meal for them, they're thankful for that.

Gregory said he knows the feeling.

"It means a lot because now I've seen people who are really making veterans realize there's somebody out there who really cares," Windham said.

His favorite part of Thanksgiving dinner?

"The people, the people, the people," Windham said. "It's just, it's joy."

Paseo Avenues will be back to host a Christmas community dinner and are taking donations and volunteers.