KINGFIELD — For many years, Rodney and Suzanne Dunham have opened their home to local individuals who would be spending the holiday away from family and loved ones.

“It’s been quietly growing for years,” Suzanne Dunham said. “But we found that people weren’t always comfortable coming to our home for such a family-oriented celebration.”

So last year, they decided to move the meal to a neutral location. Their daughter, Morgan Dunham, offered to hold the meal at her business, the Orange Cat Cafe.

The meal is not publicized, but through the small-town grapevine the event has grown into a celebration of family, friends and community. This year well over 20 people were invited to the meal.

“Even if they don’t come, they know they have a place to go,” Suzanne Dunham said.

“We weren’t really sure we were going to have it again this year,” Morgan Dunham said. “About six weeks ago, someone mentioned they were looking forward to having Thanksgiving with us again. To us, that makes it all worthwhile.”

No donations are sought for ingredients and no fee is charged for the meal. It’s just one family opening their hearts to those who might otherwise spend the holiday alone. 

dmenear@thefranklinjournal.com

Bob Tripi of Kingfield keeps up with dishes Nov. 22 during the preparation of a community Thanksgiving meal held at the Orange Cat Cafe in Kingfield. (Dee Menear/Franklin Journal)

Suzanne Dunham of Kingfield prepares homemade bread for a community Thanksgiving meal at the Orange Cat Cafe in Kingfield. (Dee Menear/Franklin Journal)

Suzanne Dunham of Kingfield prepares homemade bread for a community Thanksgiving meal at the Orange Cat Cafe in Kingfield. (Dee Menear/Franklin Journal)