The Atonement Lutheran Church hosted its 9th annual Thanksgiving Eve dinner to help the needy.
The dinner is one way the church is helping combat a growing hunger problem in the community.
“People are hungry all the time not just one day a year,” said Pastor Brian Hiortdahl. “We want to feed folks, and give people a good thanksgiving meal, especially those who will not get one."
For the Peterson family, the Thanksgiving Eve tradition is about dishing out free food and fellowship.
"It definitely grown, it's a problem right here in our community,” said Kelly Allen, who has watched the line grow every year. "You get to really interact with our guests and talk to them and hear their stories."
Pastor Hiortdahl believes many people aren’t aware of the stories of hunger in Johnson County.
One of his church’s missions is to combat the hunger problem, by supporting efforts locally and nationally. That includes financial and food donations.
The Atonement Lutheran Church also helps at Brookridge Elementary School, where many students receive a free or reduced lunch.
“We were surprised to learn about 50 percent of their students are on free or reduced lunch program,” Pasto Hiortdahl explained. “Right here in suburban Johnson county, in a sleepy neighborhood."
In Johnson County, hunger is a hidden, yet still prevalent problem.
That’s why families, like the Peterson’s, spend the night before Thanksgiving, giving back.
"It really does bring it back to reality,” said Bobbie Peterson. “Here, right at 99th and Metcalf, there is a big need that people aren't aware of. So it gives us an opportunity to do something for the community."
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Lexi Sutter can be reached at lexi.sutter@kshb.com.
