WORCESTER, Mass. - On Saturday morning, Veterans. Inc welcomed in those who served and their families for its annual pancake breakfast. 

The tradition has been running for more than 25 years. Vincent Perrone, president and CEO of Veterans Inc., said it began as a nice gesture to honor local veterans, and over the years, it has turned into a much larger event with activities for the whole family. 

'We have a wonderful kids corner where the children are here, and families are coming out all the time," Perrone said. "And what we've been able to do is tell the community how much we appreciate the veterans who served, and the families who support those veterans."

Since launching more than 30 years ago, Veterans Inc. has served 100,000 veterans and their family members. 

"I can tell you without the support of the community, we could not get this job done," Perrone said. 

Worcester County Sheriff Lew Evangelidis was among those in attendance, and said there is a tremendous need in the veteran community. He said it's everyone's job to take care of them. 

"They put their lives on the line, and we've rgot to take care of them," Evangelidis said. "So the events like this and the holiday harvest, it's nice to be able to be here and thank the people who give, make sure they have a wonderful home-cooked meal."

Veterans Inc. is also looking for people to donate food for its annual holiday harvest, which takes place Nov. 21. They are expecting to give out enough food for more than 500 veterans and their families to have Thanksgiving dinner. Donations can be dropped off at the Veterans Inc. headquarters at 69 Grove Street.