News
Howard Community College (HCC), the Community Action Council of Howard County (CAC), and Visit Howard County are coming together to host a Community Thanksgiving Meal for invited guests on Thursday, November 27, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., at the Kahlert Foundation Complex on HCC’s campus.
Invited guests include households currently receiving services through CAC’s Howard County Food Bank and Early Childhood Education Program, as well as select HCC students who may benefit from additional support during the holiday season.
Guests will enjoy a full Thanksgiving feast, including turkey and all the trimmings, provided at no cost with the support of local restaurant partners. The event aims to ensure families facing hardship can celebrate the holiday with dignity, connection, and care.
"This meal represents the heart of what our organizations can do together, meeting our neighbors where they dream with compassion and practical support," said Daria J. Willis, HCC President. "In a time when so many families are navigating economic uncertainty, we are grateful to provide a warm meal and a welcoming space where everyone belongs."
"As we head into Thanksgiving week, I am reflecting on the incredible dedication and unity shown by our community over these past several weeks. The need could not be more urgent. CAC is seeing record numbers of families seeking food assistance at our Howard County Food Bank,” said Tracy Broccolino, CAC President. “This is an indication of the ripple effects that continue following the recent federal government shutdown and the temporary pause of SNAP benefits through most of November. Many households are still working to regain stability as the holiday season approaches.”
"Visit Howard County is proud to support this meaningful partnership," said Amanda Hof, Executive Director of Visit Howard County. "Howard County hospitality extends beyond our restaurants and attractions. It is about caring for our neighbors and creating welcoming spaces where everyone can gather and connect, especially during times of need."
“We are thankful for our community and honored to help!” — Donna Leigh Wecker, Owner, The Elkridge Furnace Inn and Garden House
“Serving our community is a responsibility we embrace—especially during the holidays, when no one should feel forgotten. Contributing to the community Thanksgiving dinner is simply the right thing to do.” — Steve Wecker, Cured / 18th & 21st / Iron Bridge Wine Company 2019 State of Maryland Restaurateur of the Year
“We’re happy to be able to contribute to this. Thanksgiving is a time for comfort, good food, and also helping those in need. We're happy to work with HCC and Visit Howard County to represent the hospitality community in this.” — Corey Laub, Owner & Executive Chef, Old Line Kitchen & Wine Bar
“WE ARE LOCAL. You’ve seen us in your neighborhoods, downtown, and walking around the lake. This is our community and we are proud to be a part of it. You are our friends and neighbors, and we want nothing but the best for you. Happy Holidays.” — Demitian Gilbert, Managing Partner, The Collective Offshore
“Creating art is part of who I am—but so is cooking. Being able to share both with the community for the Thanksgiving dinner is truly an honor. Helping others is one of the most rewarding things I can do.” — Eric Smith, icFx Art
This Thanksgiving, Howard Community College, the Community Action Council of Howard County, Visit Howard County, and local restaurant partners are uniting to reduce barriers, uplift families, and reinforce that every neighbor deserves a place at the table. The Community Thanksgiving Meal stands as a testament to what can be achieved when institutions work together to foster belonging, restore stability, and help families move forward with dignity and hope.