Nov. 23, 2006 — Gov.-elect John deJongh on Thursday joined a large group of volunteers at the Salvation Army Hall in Charlotte Amalie to serve the less fortunate Thanksgiving Day dinner.
DeJongh was making good on a promise that he had made during the campaign: to not only donate food items to help feed those in need but also to show up on Thanksgiving Day to help serve the meal.
Two days after his resounding victory in a runoff election, deJongh donned a plastic white apron and paper hat and began handing out plates of turkey with all the trimmings to those gathered at the Salvation Army Hall.
In between, he greeted supporters, friends and some who heard he was there and wanted to meet and greet the next governor.
It is the second year that deJongh has participated in helping to feed others on Thanksgiving.
In remarks to those assembled for the meal, deJongh reflected on the meaning of the day. This is a beautiful territory," he said, "and many of us have a lot to be thankful for. For many of us this is a season for us to reach out to others.
Salvation Army Maj. Frederico Craig estimated that some 300 persons would be fed during the annual Thanksgiving Day dinner.
Craig said he is already planning a big feast for this time in 2007. It will be our 90th anniversary of being in the Virgin Islands next year, he said.
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