DILLON — Hundreds of people lined up Friday afternoon in Dillon to get a free turkey just in time for Thanksgiving.
The 100 birds given to the community were compliments of comedian James Stephens III, who teamed up with Charlotte, N.C.-based Campus Crest Communities for the giveaway.
Stephens’ resume includes work on “Def Comedy Jam,” but his roots are in his hometown of Dillon. Campus Crest Communities develops, builds, manages, and owns student housing properties across the United States.
Laughter, thanks and turkeys filled the Outreach Family Church parking lot, where the event was held.
“James Stephens is so nice for doing this," Dillon resident Elizabeth McKay said. “I’ve been knowing him for a long time and he’s a very nice person.”
McKay waited to see the comedian, who this time was giving his audience holiday cheer and the primary component of their Thanksgiving meal.
“I thank God that he had a kind heart to want to do this,” McKay said.
McKay is one of hundreds who mainly came to the event seeking help for their annual feast. She’s cooking for 30 people this Thanksgiving. But in this economy, she said, her family and many others can’t make it without assistance.
“It’s probably going to cost me between around $200,” McKay said. “It’s worth it to see all the family get together and be happy and stuff like that.”
“I feel strongly that the children and families of this great town should be able to fully enjoy the Thanksgiving holiday and give thanks to our Lord and appreciate each others’ company over a wholesome meal,” Stephens said in a press release. “I am blessed with the opportunity to come home and share the fruits of my success with others.”
Outreach Family Church pastor Bishop Michael Goings said although he knows 100 people received a turkey Friday afternoon, there were dozens who showed up to his church and went home with nothing.
“It’s heart-wrenching to see people in line, and not be able to give them anything,” he said. “So we just have to put it like this: it’s first come, first-served.”
Members of the church said they hope to host another event in the next few weeks to distribute food before Christmas.
Elsewhere in the region, Pee Dee Health Care is presenting its community Thanksgiving dinner from noon to 2 p.m. Sunday at Mayo High School for Math, Science and Technology, 364 Chestnut St., Darlington. The free public event, which has been known to draw up to 2,000 people, features a traditional Thanksgiving meal with all the trimmings. Call (803) 227-0914 for details.
Also, the annual Turkey giveaway on Darlington Public Square begins at 8 a.m. Tuesday. Those who gather for this event, sponsored by Eads Chiropractic, could win one of 100 turkeys to be given away. For more information, call (843) 393-1105.
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