Corpus Christi (KIII News) — The Joe Salem Dinner has been a decades-old Thanksgiving tradition in Corpus Christi and 2018 marks it's 75th anniversary.
Joe Salem Dinner was all started by a jeweler and former state representative who believed in helping in any way he could.
Sale passed away years ago, but family and other volunteers are keeping his legacy alive with the dinner.
The delicious food at the free dinner fills hundreds of bellies each Thanksgiving.
"Since he was a little kid you know he was just someone who didn't like to see any of his friends go hungry," organizer Lisa Saenz said.
The businessman and later state representative from Robstown wanted to find a different way to give back to the people of the Coastal Bend.
"It didn't matter if you were homeless, it didn't matter if you live on the south side of town or across town," head cook Meredith Jordan said.
In the 1940's Salem started feeding local newspaper boys in his downtown Corpus Christi jewelry shop then expanded to what is now a longstanding tradition.
"That's what Mr. Salem wanted. He wants people to come and enjoy everybody's company everything that we have to offer," Saenz said.
For years the Joe Salem Thanksgiving dinner was hosted at the Boys and Girls club but now calls the Sokol Hall home.
Jordan has lent his time in the event's kitchen for over 25 years, but 2018 might be his last volunteering.
"I'm getting up in age. just had some bad health ad, so I think it's time for me to kind of slow my roll down a little bit," Jordan said.
According to Jordan, helping out for so long has given him memories he will never forget.
"I can picture him on the corner of the stage sitting there greeting people and just having a good time," Jordan said.
Jordan knows he's leaving everything in good hands with organizers that will carry on a legacy dull of love and giving.
"Be nice, be kind, be thankful because he was thankful. He was a blessing to many people that came in," Jordan said.
If you plan on stopping by the Thanksgiving feast, it starts 12 p.m. at the Sokol Gym on Kostoryz.
According to organizers, residents should get to the gym early to ensure they get a seat and plate.
If you would like to volunteer for the dinner doors open at 10:30 a.m.
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