Free holiday meals served at William Way LGBT Community Center

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- For many in the city, a warm holiday meal meant more than just food; it meant care, dignity, and community.

Volunteers from the William Way LGBT Community Center spent the day serving hot meals to those who needed them most. For volunteer Nadeen Herring, giving back during the holidays is deeply personal.

"It means everything, we are definitely upon hard times. This is the little bit that I can do," said Nadeen Herring, a volunteer.

Herring said this act of kindness has turned into a cherished family tradition.

"My son and I do this for the past five years," said Herring. "You have to help one as we receive all the time."

About 150 free holiday meals were handed out right from the center's doorstep at 1315 Spruce Street in Center City. For recipients like Catherine Colon, the gratitude was immediate.

"Very happy, God bless these people, they're doing a good job," said Catherine Colon from Norristown.

Among those stopping by was Brandi Dematto, who came with her grandmother. She said the meal offered comfort and relief during a season when grocery prices can be overwhelming.

"It's really good, they're doing it too because not everyone can go out and cook, especially with how prices have been," said Brandi Dematto, of South Philadelphia.

Behind the scenes, the chef says preparing the meals was just as meaningful as serving them.

"It feels good to be able to do this for other people," said Ryen Paynter, the Chef and Owner, Paynter's Platters.

For many, there was no better way to celebrate the holiday.

"It's Christmas, and a nice warm meal sounds really good on Christmas," said Dematto.