COVINGTON, Ky. — The Sunday Morning Club hosted its 36th annual free Christmas Day Dinner at the Northern Kentucky Convention Center in Covington. The organization said despite its charitable focus, the event was open to everyone in the community. 

Mariah Riley, Northern Kentucky native and event volunteer, said Christmas is by far her favorite holiday.

"I love it," Riley said. "I decorate for the holidays; I am all into Christmas movies. I love Christmas."

In her first year of volunteering, Mariah joined more than 150 volunteers, giving back to anyone in need of a little Christmas joy.

“This year, I really felt like spending time with families that may not have other family to be with," Riley said. "Or if they have no other place to go, I can spread some very happy cheer with them and spend time with their kids." 

Founded by the late Tom Stanken Sr., who passed in 2019, the dinner started as a community meal on Thanksgiving. However, it was so successful over the years that the club eventually switched to Christmas Day. Both Riley and club treasurer Tom Hall said they want to make others happy and enjoy the holiday. 

"It just feels so good to give back, and the people don't have anywhere to go; [they have] nobody to eat with," Hall said. "They can bring their kids here [and] have a decent meal.”

The room was filled with laughter and conversation as families enjoyed a meal, received gifts and took family photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

“I hope they understand that there are people out here that love them and care for them and want them to have a wonderful Christmas,” Riley said.

The club returned to the Convention Center for the first time since before the COVID-19 pandemic. The club staff and volunteers shared they were happy to be back in the space so they could serve more people.