Local non-profit serves Thanksgiving meals to more than 150

Volunteers serving Thanksgiving meals at the Busby Centre in Barrie, Ont., on Mon., Oct. 14, 2024 (CTV News/Mike Lang)

The Busby Centre in Barrie held a first-ever Thanksgiving meal Monday afternoon, serving meals to more than 150 people.

Members lined up outside on Mulcaster Street before getting treated to a whole turkey meal that was prepared by staff and 22 volunteers.

"It's magical seeing everybody come together and just help out as much as possible," said Sammi Wagg, the Busby Centre's volunteer coordinator. "Our friends here are really appreciative, and I'm appreciative to see the community coming here and being together."

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The non-profit organization prepared a total of 12 turkeys, seven hams, 100 pounds of potatoes, 25 boxes of stuffing and 21 pumpkin pies, among other donated items.

The meals helped members like 58-year-old Andrew Norton find a sense of belonging and community for the Holiday.

"I'm thankful that Busby has done this for us and everybody else," said Norton.

It was also one of the first major events in the Busby Centre's new larger facility right next to its current location. 50 to 60 meals were also served at the Georgian Bay location in Collingwood.

"It's just all that good feeling to give back and give people a nice warm meal," said Louise Jackson, the Busby Centre's communications and events director. "This is the true spirit of thanksgiving."