Feast of Giving extends welcome to survivors of the Memorial Day tornadoes

Thousands attended the Feast of Giving Thursday, an annual event held each Thanksgiving Day at the Dayton Convention Center. LISA POWELL / STAFF PHOTO

Credit: Lisa Powell

Credit: Lisa Powell

Thousands attended the Feast of Giving Thursday, an annual event held each Thanksgiving Day at the Dayton Convention Center. LISA POWELL / STAFF PHOTO

In years past, the Feast of Giving has been a way to unite neighbors, friends, the homeless, and those who might otherwise be spending Thanksgiving alone. This year, however, the event bears a more bittersweet significance.

In the true spirit of Thanksgiving, the Dayton community is extending a special invitation to all survivors of the Memorial Day tornadoes.

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The Feast of Giving takes place on Thursday, Nov. 28 at the Dayton Convention Center.  The doors open at 11 a.m. and dinner will be served until 2 p.m.

Aside from a free holiday meal, guests can also look forward to live music and other activities for children.

There will be free parking in the Dayton Convention Center garage, along with free RTA and Project Mobility transportation to and from the convention from 9 a.m to 4 p.m.

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The Feast of Giving is a continuation of the efforts of local businessman Arthur Beerman, one of  the founders of Elder-Beerman. In 1969, after receiving hundreds of cards and and visitors from the Dayton community at his hospital bed, Beerman decided to hold a free Thanksgiving meal to thank the community for their outpouring. From there, the event was put on for 40 more years through the Beerman Foundation until it was discontinued. At this time, it was one of the biggest charitable dinner functions in the country.

Since 2008, various sponsors have worked hard to continue the charitable efforts of Beerman, and thus, the Feast of Giving remains one of the largest community events in Dayton.

For more information about transportation to the event, call (937)-425-8300.

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WANT TO GO?

What: The Feast of Giving

When: Thanksgiving, Thursday, Nov. 28, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: Dayton Convention Center, 22 E. 5th St., Dayton

Cost: Free

More info: Website

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