KINGSTON, N.Y. -- Nearly 200 Thanksgiving meals were prepared at People's Place on Thursday. This is the second-annual Thanksgiving brunch for the nonprofit, designed to help anyone in need.

What You Need To Know

  • People's Place serves as a thrift store, food pantry, wellness empowerment center and community cafe

  • Organizers and volunteers said there's a need for free food services in Ulster County and they're dedicated to meeting the demand

  • People's Place is a resource for anyone living in Ulster County, especially people experiencing homelessness, unemployment and/or financial challenges

Dennis Quinn is a full-time chef and manager of People's Place. The Kingston native says Thanksgiving is just another opportunity to give back to a community he calls home.

“To see the joy that the food brings them every day, it’s just magical," Quinn said. "I just can’t describe it. It’s just incredible!”

Quinn and a host of volunteers prepared and served pumpkin pancakes, chicken and waffle bake, Thanksgiving sliders and other community favorites. 

People's Place Executive Director Christine Hein said although this is only the second year for the Thanksgiving brunch, there are residents in need, year-round.

“So many people from the community just want some place to come to," Hein said. "They don’t have access to be able to cook and be able to have either breakfast foods or lunch foods.”

Hein said the small act of kindness goes a long way for people of all ages and socioeconomic backgrounds. 

“It breaks your heart a little bit to see so many people that are struggling in today’s economy and in today’s world," Hein said. "It’s across the whole country. It’s not just unique to Kingston or New York state.”

John Morant came to People's Place on Thanksgiving to enjoy a free meal. He said while he's been experiencing homelessness since February, this is one resource he can rely on.

“They are very good," Morant said. "I come here almost every day. And I just told Dennis he’s doing a great job.”

People's Place is open Monday through Friday and organizers are accepting donations on an on-going basis.