Deferiet firefighters put out Thanksgiving welcome mat

Free dinner in Deferiet
Published: Nov. 24, 2023 at 7:56 AM EST|Updated: 12 hours ago
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DEFERIET, New York (WWNY) - For the second year in a row, the Deferiet Fire Department gave out free dinners to residents this holiday, starting a new tradition they hope can continue for years to come.

Firefighter Victor Monaghan started the tradition last year, bringing his kitchen from home to the fire hall.

About 20 people took advantage of the free holiday dinner last year.

Monaghan prepared for that number to grow this year, cooking four turkeys and two hams this Thanksgiving.

Those at the fire hall say it’s all about giving back.

“We prepared the meal before or while they get here,” Monaghan said. “We get to draw them in with a conversation and send them away with a smile. Keep giving back, it only takes one person.”

Monaghan says about 15 members of his own family are helping out and having dinner at the station with the Deferiet residents.