Catholic Charities Christ House in Alexandria opened its doors to the hungry November 27, serving Thanksgiving dinner and providing holiday food baskets to needy families. Bishop Paul S. Loverde helped serve the meal, along with staff and volunteers, including 25 volunteers from the Young Adult Ministry of the Diocese of Arlington.
Bishop Loverde led prayers before the meal, greeted guests, and thanked workers, including long-time volunteer Chef Sergio Mueller. Sixty-six individuals were served dinner, and 269 families were given Thanksgiving food baskets.
Christ House is the site of Catholic Charities soup kitchen, food pantry, shelter for the homeless, thrift shop, and emergency assistance program. It will serve Christmas dinner December 25 from 1 to 4 and will distribute Christmas food baskets and gifts to the needy.
For more information or to donate nonperishable food, which is always needed, call 703-548-4227 or drop food off at 131 S. West Street in Alexandria between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. on weekdays. Catholic Charities helps those in need regardless of their race or creed.