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35th Annual Bea Gaddy Thanksgiving Dinner

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- The weather could not have worked out better today, and the annual dinner was busier than usual.

From the line of hungry guests in Patterson Park, to the plates piled high, the Bea Gaddy Thanksgiving Dinner is a Baltimore City tradition.

"It wouldn't feel like Thanksgiving if I didn't," said volunteer William Gross.

The annual free turkey dinner was started 35 years ago by well-known advocate for the homeless, Bea Gaddy.

Fifteen years after her death, Gaddy's daughter, Cynthia Brooks, makes sure that her mother's legacy is still feeding thousands.

"It's something my mother started and it's grown. It's her baby that she gave birth to. And it's so important to my family to continue her work," said Bea Gaddy's daughter, Cynthia Brooks.

About 47-thousand meals were served last year, and Brooks says this year looks even bigger. Along with a good meal, families get a bag to take home, and a chance to shop around for warm clothes.

"It's a humbling thing, and I'm glad to be a part of it," said volunteer Ashley Wilson.

A community effort in the holiday spirit.

"Everyone is just being thankful for the day. I don't know what tomorrow's going to bring, but today is showing peace and love," said one Thanksgiving diner.

Showing, no matter our differences, there's always something to be thankful for, together.

Bea Gaddy's Thanksgiving Dinner started with just 49 guests, 35 years ago.

Volunteers also delivered meals to those who couldn't make it to the dinner.

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