SOUTH DEERFIELD — The South County Senior Center celebrated Thanksgiving early this year during its annual holiday luncheon on Friday.
“It brings socialization and family,” said Sue Corey, the center’s program coordinator. “Everybody likes to feel part of a family — and that’s how we think of folks here at the center.”
About 50 people packed into the center’s dining room, enjoying a meal of turkey, potatoes, stuffing and gravy — while listening to piano music played by local resident Jay Stryker. The event was sponsored by LifePath, which also puts on a few other food-related programs including Meals on Wheels.
“It’s a traditionally family time,” Corey continued, noting that the event is “for those who don’t have close family — it gives them a feeling of being part of a family.”
Kitchen Manager Elaine Culver led a group of about six volunteers dishing out food in the kitchen.
Senior Center Director Marlene Johnson, who was also serving, said this year she’s thankful for all the center’s volunteers — in particular, Pat Blakeslee and Theresa Boron from the Holy Name of Jesus Parish.
Johnson said Blakeslee and Boron often give of their time to cook for the center.
At one of the tables, Mary Ann Kowleck, Helen Demko, Alice Savage, Dorothy Lucas and Dorothy Mogelinski sat together, enjoying each others company with a spirit of thanksgiving.
“We’re thankful for everything,” said Kowleck, a member of the center. “It’s good to come together, love one another and thank God for the good things we have.”
“I like to get together and have a good meal,” Demko said, before pumpkin pie was served. “I’m thankful for everything I have.”
The center will have another Thanksgiving meal — with a home-cooked turkey prepared by Corey — around noon on Nov. 28. Tickets to that event must be purchased in advance, and are available at the center on North Main Street in the center of town.