Thomas Merton Center hosts Thanksgiving meal for 100 people

The Thomas Merton Center held its Thanksgiving meal Wednesday and served more than 100 people in need.
Michael Reese, of Bridgeport, has fallen on hard times, but still says he has a lot to be grateful for.
"Today was absolutely a traditional Thanksgiving," Reese said. "I'm full, need to unbutton my belt."
He says he's thankful to the Thomas Merton Center for his warm holiday meal.
"I would not have a Thanksgiving meal if it wasn't for them," Reese said. "It's a place to come and actually get something to eat that helps you, that satiates you and you're not hungry right afterwards. The meal today was excellent."
Gov. Ned Lamont served up some warm meals with State Sen. Tony Hwang and Bridgeport Mayor Joe Ganim.
Director of Thomas Merton Center Bill Colson opened the doors for people to come inside for the first time since the pandemic hit.
"For the first time in almost two years, they're actually able to come in and enjoy their Thanksgiving day meal."
Vaccinated guests were able to dine inside and unvaccinated stayed outside.
The Thomas Merton Center will be closed on Thanksgiving but will be back open on Friday to serve a meal to those who need one.
The center also had a vaccine mobile clinic for people to get their COVID-19 vaccine and booster shots.
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