Organizers say over 600 meals were served at this year’s event, an increase of approximately 100 meals from last year due to increased need.

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — At the ‘Sokol Gym’ on Kostoryz, the 82nd annual Joe Salem Thanksgiving drive-thru served hundreds of meals to families in need on Thursday. 

What started as a small act of kindness by Joe Salem 82 years ago has grown into a beloved community tradition, thanks to the dedication of volunteers and the Salem family. 

Event organizer, Lisa Luevanos, said, “It was something that he asked of me to do for him, and he asked me to make him a promise that I would continue to do this for him. So I am a woman of my word, and we’re gonna continue to do this until we just can’t do it anymore.”

Determined to make sure no one goes without a hot Thanksgiving meal, keeping the spirit of giving alive year after year.