Local diner gives back to the community with free meals Thanksgiving Day
Bethel Park diner owners Erica and Steve Diethorn will again provide free Thanksgiving Day meals for those who would otherwise be alone for the holiday or who may have a financial hardship.
Ma and Pop’s Country Kitchen will open its doors from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 28. Seating can be reserved by calling the diner. Take-out and delivery are also available.
This is the sixth year the diner has provided the free holiday meal.
“We are very blessed by having people in our community that support the cause,” said Erica Diethorn.
Vendors support the effort as well. “It’s grown to the point that honestly people are charitable enough that it covers the cost pretty much for the food,” Diethorn said.
The Diethorns begin on Monday the week of Thanksgiving to prepare for the holiday. Turkey meal boxes include a turkey meal with white meat turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy and corn, and a ham meal with sweet potato casserole, green beans, a roll, butter and coleslaw. Many of the desserts are donated.
Volunteers are scheduled in two-hour shifts, and between 45 and 50 volunteers are needed for the day. Delivery drivers and afternoon volunteers are still needed. Interested volunteers can call the diner.
As in past years, some entertainment will be provided.
Meals should be reserved by Friday, Nov. 22, by calling the diner, 412-595-8451. Ma and Pop’s Country Kitchen is located at 2840 South Park Road.