GREENFIELD — More than 600 meals were shared Sunday as the community gathered for Greenfield’s second annual A Day of Thanks dinner at Greenfield Memorial Hall.
According to organizers, the free Thanksgiving-style event “aims to get people together as a community, enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving dinner and meet new people.”
The Nov. 23 gathering drew residents from across South Monterey County — and beyond — for an afternoon of food, neighbors reconnecting and volunteers working in sync to feed hundreds.
Monterey County Supervisor Chris Lopez said the turnout reflected the spirit of the holiday and the dedication of the many groups involved.
“Well over 600 meals and still counting were rolled out to the community today, thanks to the organizers, volunteers and donors of the 2025 Day of Thanks in Greenfield,” said Lopez, noting that he saw guests arriving “from San Miguel to Salinas showing up to break bread and share space and stories in a meaningful way today.”
Guests were welcomed at the door by Mayor Robert White and Councilmember Belen Garcia, while serving lines were staffed by members of the Heart of the Valley Chamber, the Greenfield Youth Council, local cadets and others. Lopez said the Madresita Foundation, 4-H and the American Legion also took part, “all with the mission of service,” and credited the Food Bank for supplying “amazing food.”
Lopez highlighted the work of Councilmember Rachel Ortiz, calling her the driving force behind the event’s growth from its inaugural year in 2024.
“A special shoutout to the visionary who puts us all together, Councilwoman Rachel Ortiz,” he said. “This year, we were able to get the County to help make this meal possible because of her dedicated work to pull us all together.”
One of the day’s most meaningful efforts happened behind the scenes, Lopez said, as youth volunteers assembled meals for homebound seniors.
“I watched the Greenfield Youth Council prepare over 300 to-go meals that were loaded into Greenfield Police Department and Greenfield Fire Department vehicles for distribution to homebound seniors,” he said. “Understanding who and why we serve is something these young leaders are stepping into early. It’s an honor to know them and their work.”
The supervisor said he hopes the community tradition continues to grow.
“I hope everyone enjoyed it, and I think we should go even bigger next year, after resting, of course,” he said.
