HOUSTON – Tens of thousands of Houstonians attended the Christmas Eve Big Feast in downtown Monday and they received much more than just a hot meal.
The 34th annual event provided a free, hot Christmas Eve dinner to anyone who needed it. It began at 10 a.m. at the George R. Brown Convention Center.
In addition to a traditional holiday meal of turkey and dressing, yams, green beans, corn, sweet peas, cranberry sauce and desserts, more than 500,000 pieces of clothing, blankets, jackets, coats, household items and toys were given out.
Guests were also able to get a free flu shot and information about employment and educational opportunities.
A Kid's Zone ensured the children had a good time, and Santa was on hand to take pictures and give out presents.
The City Wide Club of Clubs hosts the event every year.
"I came today to celebrate Christmas and I enjoyed myself today," said Jerome Robertson, who attended the feast.
"It makes it all worthwhile," said Stephanie Lewis, regional project director for the City Wide Club of Clubs.
For more information on the City Wide Club and how to help, visit www.citywideclub.com.