TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) — 22 years strong: That's how long Project Annie has been feeding the Tallahassee community for Thanksgiving.
Whether it's your first time or a tradition, excitement fills the air when people walk away with one of Annie Johnson's Thanksgiving meals.
For Carlton Brown, that plate is more than just Thursday's meal.
"It brings back memories of my mother and how good the food she used to cook," said Brown.
"That's my grandma Suzy May. She passed away and this reminds him of her food," his daughter Keisha adds.
For the last 22 years, Annie Johnson has served up Thanksgiving meals for free and feeds about a thousand.
"I must carry it on. I want to carry it on. I love it," said Johnson.
A love so strong, Johnson served up those plates this year despite a broken hand.
"When Thanksgiving and Christmas come, I ask God to take care of me so I can continue to feed his people," said Johnson.
She's passing that service and passion down to younger family members. Like her niece Wanda Atkinson.
"It's inspired me. She taught me how to clean and how to cook," said Atkinson, "she's been a big impact over the years."
Atkinson says this is a tradition that will be passed down for generations to come.
The Annie Project is open year-round. It operates as a food pantry, a place to get clothes, and a hot meal.
If you want to donate or get a meal, she's located at 625 West 4th Avenue in Frenchtown.
