Puerto Rican restaurant group El Cilantrillo is partnering with New Vision Ministry to provide a Thanksgiving feast for more than 250 homeless individuals in Central Florida.
The 19th annual event will take place at 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 23, outside Orlando City Hall.
Saturday’s menu will include Thanksgiving staples ranging from turkey, sweet potatoes and potato salad to Puerto Rican holiday classics like pernil (roasted pork shoulder) and cilantro rice.
Items donated by community members — blankets, warm clothing and coats — will be distributed at the event to help community members prepare for the colder weather ahead.
Nineteen years ago, Pastor Migdalia Pagan of New Vision Ministry had the idea to extend a helping hand to a vulnerable population during the season of giving. Nearly two decades later, the tradition continues, and the ideals of community and compassion stay at the forefront.
“Food has the power to bring people together and create lasting connections,” Hiram Turull, owner of El Cilantrillo Restaurant, said in a press release. “Our partnership with New Vision Ministry enables us to share not just a meal but also a message of hope and compassion for those in need to nurture the body and the soul.”
“Together, we are committed to making this Thanksgiving a special and memorable day for everybody in our community,” Turull added.
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This article appears in Nov 20-26, 2024.