By KANDACE MCCOY
kandace.mccoy@register-news.com
MT. VERNON — For the 15th year, John Paul and Johnna Braswell are making sure people get a warm meal this holiday season.
“The first year, we fed a little over 100 people,” Johnna Braswell said. “This year, we’re expecting to feed 650 people.”
The meal is part of Operation Love, which was adopted by the local Elks organization several years ago. Volunteers prepare and cook food — consisting of turkey, dressing, gravy, green beans, corn, roll, dessert, fruit and milk — and send the meals out to members of the community. Braswell said 95 percent of the meals are delivered with about 50 volunteers that help deliver the food.
“The purpose of Operation Love is to reach out to the elderly, the shut-ins, people less fortunate that others and those who may be having a hard time,” Braswell said.
Volunteers will begin preparing the meal the evening of Dec. 12, when 50 turkeys will be placed in a cooker to be ready by 8 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 13. The rest of the meal will also be prepared Sunday. Delivery of meals will begin at 2 p.m. Dec. 14 to residents at Rose Lane, Rome Meadows, Heritage Landing and others who have been referred by churches, housing authorities, school and organizations such as Catholic Social Services.
And though deliveries are made in the city, Braswell said county residents may call about a meal and make arrangements to pick it up.
Donations are still needed, she said, adding she believes the community will step up as it has in the past.
“There’s a man, who lives up north, who makes a donation every year, so the word spreads,” Braswell said.
If you would like to donate to Operation Love, you may call Braswell at 242-7477.
