Chef cooks Thanksgiving meal for people in need

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Thanksgiving morning typically starts with the smells of a home cooked meal but for those facing food insecurity it can feel a bit different.

“The prices of groceries have gone up so high. it really gives me a joy to be able to do something that not only do I love, but to other people who are not able to do it,” says Kevin Winston II, “Chef Kev.” 

Winston is making sure everyone gets to celebrate the holiday by cooking a Thanksgiving meal for people in need. 

“When I grew up i always had the opportunity to have thanksgiving at my grandparents and family and friends. That was just like a highlight. I feel like that highlight has being taken away for so many people. So i want to be able to provide something that I do for a living as a highlight to their life,” he said.

He served 70 meals to low income residents and the homeless, in partnership with Chef Chianti Peek.

Those who came to eat said they are thankful.

“I feel like we all have our battles and issues in life, but when you have an open door for someone to help or support you, take it. It’s nothing to be ashamed of. We all have our moments. So take it when someone is generous and trying to give back and help,” said Brittany Reid. 

The American Farm Bureau Federation says a Thanksgiving meal for 10 people cost around $55 this year, money not everyone has, especially living in a shelter.

“This particular holiday, when you’re going through what they go through, is taken away. So they don’t get that opportunity to feel like it’s a holiday. It’s kind of just like another day, so I kind of want them to have that in their mind like, wow, now it feels like a holiday,” Winston said.

This is his third year cooking for people in need and he has plans to continue for as long as he can.

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