Kate's Kitchen prepares for Thanksgiving dinner

Date: 11/11/2008

By Lori Szepelak

Correspondent



HOLYOKE As Thanksgiving quickly approaches, Bill Bullard of Kate's Kitchen says he's thankful year-round for the generosity of individuals and businesses throughout the region.

Kate's Kitchen on Hamilton Street serves a free noontime meal to anyone, 365 days a year.

"We have a policy of no questions asked," Bullard said during a morning interview on Nov. 5 with Reminder Publications. Bullard serves as kitchen manager at Kate's Kitchen.

As the economy continues to take a toll on the purse strings of area residents, Bullard has seen a noticeable increase in those seeking a free meal.

"Traditionally we serve 75 meals at lunch, but now by the end of the month, we usually double that amount," he said. "We see a lot of families and they always thank us and smile."

While Bullard notes that he sees "new faces all the time," there are still many families who come to the site to ensure their children receive a nutritious meal once a day. Bullard added that he expects to serve approximately 150 people on Thanksgiving.

Since that's a tall order to fill, Bullard knows he can depend on the Knights of Columbus organization on Memorial Drive in Chicopee for assistance. In fact, every year the Knights come through with a complete meal including stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, butternut squash, vegetables, rolls, dessert, and, of course, turkeys.

"They are very good to us," he said.

Prior to the food stuffs arriving on Thanksgiving, Bullard's kitchen staff and volunteers will prepare the hall with decorations and ensure that all the necessary utensils and beverages are in place when the doors open at noon for dinner. The Thanksgiving meal will be served from noon to 1:30 p.m.

Bullard said he would be remiss if he didn't thank several businesses for their generosity during the year, including Stop & Shop, Big Y Supermarkets, Nick's Nest, Bernadino's, Cumberland Farms and CNS Wholesalers, as well as the numerous church groups and Jewish organizations who donate not only their time but food items.

As the year winds down in December, Bullard and volunteers will also host a Christmas Day lunch that will include stuffed ham, turkey and all the fixings.

He noted that if individuals, businesses or organizations wanted to make a donation during the holiday season, items for children including books and stuffed animals would be greatly appreciated.

"We see a lot of poor children," he said.

Items for children can be dropped off with Bullard weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Kate's Kitchen.

As Bullard's thoughts return once more to Thanksgiving and the final preparations that are needed, he again thanked the community for all their support.

"We're doing a good thing here," he said, adding, "and we will find a use for anything that is brought in."

For more information on volunteering during the holidays at Kate's Kitchen, or to make a donation, call 536-9109. Kate's Kitchen is a member of Providence Ministries for the Needy Inc.