On Thursday, November 20, Foodlink honored the incredible legacy of Rosa Wims by hosting the 36th Annual Thanksgiving Meal at St. Peter’s Kitchen.

The late Rosa Wims was never one to turn down hosting duties for Thanksgiving. For more than 30 years, she welcomed hundreds to a Thanksgiving meal in Rochester’s Corn Hill neighborhood, making it an annual tradition that touched countless lives. Rosa was a trailblazer—a longtime public health advocate and the first Black nurse’s aide at Rochester General Hospital. Her commitment to service extended to her work with Foodlink, where she served as both staff and board member.

After Rosa’s passing in September 2023 at the age of 100, Foodlink vowed to continue this cherished tradition in her memory. This year, the tradition lived on at St. Peter’s Kitchen, where patrons enjoyed a Thanksgiving meal prepared by Foodlink’s Career Fellows, feeding more than 300 people. The dinner was held at St. Peter’s as they are one of our partner agencies who has responded to the overwhelming need in recent months.

Thanks to the hard work and generosity of everyone involved, hundreds of neighbors enjoyed a warm, nourishing meal.