MONTEREY COUNTY — Interim Inc. hosted its annual Friendsgiving Lunch on Nov. 21 at the OMNI Resource Center in Salinas, welcoming more than 200 clients and community members, including individuals experiencing homelessness or living with mental health challenges.
The event, which has been supported by the Coastal Roots Hospitality for the past five years, also served an additional 50-plus meals to Interim’s residential and service programs.
For individuals who may otherwise face the holidays alone, Interim Inc.’s annual Friendsgiving Lunch offers more than a meal — it offers connection, dignity and a sense of belonging.
Coastal Roots Hospitality partners with Interim Inc. to provide over 500 free meals during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. Tarpy’s Roadhouse caters the meals enjoyed by the event attendees. Markon Cooperative Inc. and its suppliers also partner to donate produce.
“Friendsgiving is about more than a holiday meal — it’s about reminding people that they matter and that they belong. For many of our clients, this is the only holiday celebration they’ll experience, and thanks to our partners and volunteers, it becomes a moment of dignity and connection,” said Rhiyan Quiton, executive director of Interim.
Interim’s event coordinator, Lisa Corpuz, added, “At Interim, we often talk about housing, healing and hope — and on days like this, we see all three in action. Friendsgiving brings our community together in a way that is deeply meaningful for the people we serve.”
The holiday meals also reflect Coastal Roots Hospitality’s commitment to giving back and fostering community connections through food and fellowship. Coastal Roots Hospitality is “dedicated to inspiring healthier, more vibrant communities by connecting people with quality food prepared and served with honesty and integrity,” making this annual commitment a meaningful investment in the community they help nourish year-round.
