LA VERGNE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Thanksgiving celebrations started early at one Rutherford County school, as students, faculty, and staff came together to serve dinner to hundreds in the community.
LaVergne Middle School hosted its 10th Project Feed. The event was started by principal Cary Holman as a way to give back to the community.
“Just to watch all the families and children come through, it is absolutely amazing,” said Cary Holman. “I think it’s paramount that we as schools build a partnership with our families and communities.”
Everyone at the school is involved in the process of making the meal come together. Each grade level is responsible for collecting the canned vegetables for the meal. Students are taught how to prepare the food. Administration, faculty and staff members donate desserts and drinks. In addition, local community partners show support with monetary and food donations.
“It’s just a way for us to give back to the community and help support our students,” said Christine Tennyson, Assistant Principal at LaVergne Middle School.
Holman estimated over 10,000 meals had been served at the school over the course of the last 10 years.
This year’s meal featured 25 turkeys, 25 hams, 14 pans of macaroni and cheese, 10 pans of green beans, and 11 pans of sweet potatoes.
Students said they enjoyed being a part of the event.
“It’s amazing because you get to cook anything you want to cook,” said Angel Rowland, a 7th grader at the school. “It’s so fun.”
Anyone in the community can enjoy the free meal.
“We don’t ask questions,” said Holman. “We want you to come and sit here and eat, as well as take a plate with you.”
Holman said it’s been incredible to watch how the event has grown through the years.
