Cockeysville Family to Provide Thanksgiving Meals for 250 Homeless People

For the ninth year in a row, one Cockeysville family will be distributing meals on Thursday to 250 homeless people in downtown Baltimore.

Chris Leone and Annette Callahan started the service project tradition, which they call "From the Heart," to teach their children Nicholas, 9, Andrew, 7, and Ellie, 3, the importance of giving to those who may be less fortunate.

"The main thing is to help children understand the importance of giving," Chris Leone said.

As has been the case in previous years, the distribution will be based at the corner of Baltimore and Gay streets, where the family and volunteers will set up stations for the homeless to pick up a hot meal, prepackaged food and drinks, winter clothing, personal items and blankets.

Chris Leone said the event has grown considerably over the years.

"When we first started, we were only able to help out 100," she said. "Now, we can help 250 and I expect it'll continuing growing."

in Cockeysville will be providing 25 roasted turkeys and an assortment of pies and Applebee's Neighborhood Bar and Grill in Timonium will be serving mashed potatoes, Chris Leone said. Family, friends and Scout troops have also provided donations.

And she thinks the efforts to teach her kids about charity have paid off.

"My 9- and 7-year-old — everytime they get money from their grandparents they give half to the homeless," Chris Leone said. "Until last year, they didn't even realize it was Thanksgiving. They thought it was 'homeless day.'"

If you're interested in volunteering or donating additional winter items and non-perishable food for the event, you can call Chris Leone at 443-398-6086.

Patch joined the family in the tradition last year. Check out the story