A cornucopia of giving for Thanksgiving

‘I can’t think of anywhere else in the world where you can call a number,” City Councilman Rick Grantham said about Dial-A-Ride’s reservation line (772-5514), “and arrange for a free round trip antique trolley ride to a free community Thanksgiving dinner.”

Rick and Claire Grantham inherited the annual Morro Bay Thanksgiving Community dinner chairmanship from former police Chief Joe Loven.

Sponsored by the Morro Bay Police Foundation and the Rotary Club, Grantham credits many volunteers and business supporters making resources available from 1 to 3 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day at the Community Center on Kennedy Way.

Albertsons, Cookie Crock, Mission Linen, Top Dog Coffee, Miner’s Ace Hardware and Central Coast Culligan are sponsors, and Councilwoman Carla Borchard helped Rotary purchase pies.

“We want everyone to join us at the Community Center,” Grantham said. “It’s a community event for everyone living in Morro Bay — those who can’t afford to or are not healthy enough to prepare a Thanksgiving feast, or who just want to be among community friends and family.”

“Call Morro Bay police if you can’t get out, and they’ll deliver,” Grantham said. “Officer Hannibal takes more than 40 meals to the homeless.”

Where but Cayucos?

Nineteen years ago, Cayucos Community Church Pastor Louie Martinez started a dinner “to feed the downtown people, just to show them we love them.”

Chairman Sheila Lebbad said, “We served 200 the first year and over 1,300 this year. At Cayucos Pharmacy, we know who is sick, so there were another 150 shut-ins we delivered to.”

Spencer’s Market, Mission Linen, Cayucos Pharmacy and Martin’s and Sea Shanty restaurants donated, and Cayucos Community and St. Joseph’s Church members served.

“Most know we don’t need a free meal, but it’s a chance for us to get together, make new friends and thank the Lord for his blessings living on the coast,” Lebbad said.

Where but Los Osos?

And for 19 years as of Dec. 15 the Rotary Club of Los Osos has sponsored and prepared a turkey dinner for community seniors. Past President and Chairman Michelle Caretto said 150 seniors were served last year.

“The local 4H Club decorates gingerbread houses, May’s Growers donates flowers, and Bill and Clytis Pitzer lead Christmas carols. Seniors should reserve at 528-2626.”

Where but ... ? Maybe Small-town Anywhere, USA, however, thanks and blessings to all who serve each other on the Central Coast.

Reach Judy Salamacha at 801-1422 or jsalamacha@yahoo.com.