Thanksgiving morning saw the bustling Emancipation Garden transformed into a hub of warmth and generosity as the annual Penn-Scipio Thanksgiving Luncheon marked nearly three decades of feeding and connecting the St. Thomas community. Organized by Francine Penn-Scipio, the event brought together locals, seniors, and even visitors from three cruise ships docked in the harbor to share in the festive tradition.
Penn-Scipio, inspired by her late husband Clarence Scipio’s vision of faith and brotherhood, spearheaded an operation that served what amounted to about 400 meals this year. Supported by donors including CC1, the Barbel family, Caribbean Foods, and I. Levin, and with assistance from community groups like Voices of Love, the luncheon provided a space where all could gather, share stories and enjoy a Thanksgiving feast.
Volunteers of all ages worked tirelessly to ensure the event’s success. Among them was Elizabeth Leerdam, who has been helping alongside her mother since she was 12. “Back then, it was held in the church,” Leerdam said. “Now it’s grown into something much bigger. Everyone deserves to celebrate Thanksgiving, and this event makes that possible.”
The day began with a moment of prayer led by Rev. Sandye Wilson, Dean and Chaplain of the Cathedral Church of All Saints, who also helped honor the memory of Millicent Gagliani, a longtime former Department of Health colleague of Penn-Scipio’s – along with friend and luncheon volunteer – who passed away earlier this month. “This is the time of year when we feel loss the most,” Wilson said afterward. “But coming together reminds us that we’re not alone.”
Meals, featuring turkey, chicken, ham, lasagna, saltfish, and a variety of sides, were served with care. Seniors from Ebenezer Gardens were transported to the garden for the occasion, while volunteers hand-delivered more than two dozen meals to others unable to attend. “I’ve been coming since the very beginning,” said senior participant Lola Roberts Richards. “It’s not just about the food—it’s the kindness and care of the volunteers that make this day so special.”
For Penn-Scipio, the event is also family affair. Her granddaughter, Alliyah Dessout, a hospitality and tourism teacher at Ivanna Eudora Kean High School, added a personal touch by distributing thank-you cards made by her students to the volunteers. “It’s important for us to continue showing appreciation for everyone who helps make today happen,” Dessout said.
The presence of cruise ship passengers added an extra layer of camaraderie to the gathering, as visitors joined the community in the celebration. By midday, the line for food wound around the bandstand, reflecting the broad reach and enduring impact of the luncheon.
As the plates were cleared and the crowd began to disperse, Penn-Scipio reflected on the legacy of the event. “This is what Thanksgiving is about,” she said. “It’s not just a meal—it’s about sharing love, gratitude, and community.”
For the hundreds who attended, the Penn-Scipio Thanksgiving Luncheon once again proved that the true spirit of the holiday lies in coming together, creating connections, and lifting one another up – one plate at a time.
