Humphrey’s and Jolly Fox collaborate for a second year to serve warm meals, spreading holiday cheer to the Huntsville community.
The HEARTS Veterans Museum hosted its second annual Free Community Lunch on December 17, 2024, at the Walker County Storm Shelter. Sponsored by George Spentzos of Humphrey’s and Jared Hansen of Jolly Fox, the event served as a way to spread holiday cheer, provide hot meals, and foster fellowship among the Huntsville community.
The lunch saw increased participation compared to last year, when around 100 meals were served. This year, organizers anticipated even more attendees. “We’ve seen the event grow this year,” said Tara Burnett, Executive Director of HEARTS Veterans Museum. “People at work are swinging by to grab plates, and others are taking meals to loved ones. It’s exciting to see how this is bringing the community together.”
The event was open to everyone, ensuring that anyone who wanted to share a meal could do so. Jared Hansen highlighted the importance of making the lunch accessible. “Yeah, anyone who wants to come by, we’re going to feed and take care of,” Hansen said.
While many people stayed to enjoy their meals at the shelter, others picked up to-go plates for themselves or others, including healthcare workers who delivered meals to their clients. Hansen reflected on the importance of providing for those in need during the holiday season.
“We want everyone to have a good meal, a nice warm meal, especially around the holidays,” he said. “Whenever we wrap up serving here, anything left over is going to go to some of the other shelters in town, some of the elderly citizen places, and stuff like that.”
Hansen credited Spentzos for his dedication to continuing this tradition. “George came to me again this year. He wanted to get back on board; he wants this to be an annual thing to grow each year,” Hansen said. “We’re just trying to feed the community.”
Both Spentzos and Hansen provided the resources and funding to make the lunch possible, covering the costs themselves to ensure the event remained free for all.
The Free Community Lunch demonstrated the power of local businesses and organizations coming together to make a positive impact. As the event concluded, the leftover food was boxed and delivered to local shelters and elderly care facilities, ensuring nothing went to waste.
As Huntsville continues to face challenging economic times, events like these serve as a reminder of the generosity and community spirit that bring people together. Both organizers are committed to continuing the tradition, making it an annual event to celebrate fellowship and support within the community.
