LOUISVILLE, Ky. — In the Louisville’s Portland neighborhood, the Haven Ministry made sure their community ate well Sunday, serving up a hearty Thanksgiving meal to anyone who was hungry. 

The idea for this came from Ester Lyon, executive director of The Haven Ministries. Lyon says over a decade ago, it was faith that got her out of a rough spot in life and now, she wants to uplift others. 

“I was an alcoholic, really bad off, and God delivered me from alcoholism, so when he helped me get back on my feet he put this on my heart,” Lyon said. “So when I see and look into many people's eyes, it’s where I was so they’re an inspiration to me to be able to serve them and also be able to point them to God that can change our lives”

Lyon says there are plenty of familiar faces enjoying a meal who frequent the Cup of Joy Cafe where the annual event is held. Located in what used to be an old bar, it is now a gathering space for people starting their recovery journey. 

“To be able to come together and spend time with family is very special and many individuals don’t have that. And so it’s a blessing to be able to call them family and spend time with them and it’s special for us and as well as for them,” Lyon said. 

One of those smiling faces was Portland resident Rob Price, who attended the meal with his two young boys. “Oh it’s delicious, very delicious, like it’s one of those types of things where you want to go kiss the cook,” Price said. The three have been going to this for a number of years and Price says it's become a family tradition. 

“It’s really amazing to see that there are people out there that still care, that (there's) still faith in humanity,” Price said. "Not many people you see that are going to cook a big ‘ole Thanksgiving dinner like this and invite the whole neighborhood in”

Volunteers at the dinner say each year they serve around 800 to a thousand meals.