WATCH: Day of Giving 2025

Eastern welcomed nearly 500 guests to Hurley Hall on Nov. 26 for the 19th annual "Day of Giving," providing a traditional Thanksgiving dinner to local residents who might not otherwise be able to enjoy a traditional holiday meal.

"The Day of Giving is a powerful tradition at Eastern because it reflects the way our community cares for one another and for our neighbors in Windham," said Eastern President Karim Ismaili.

"The needs in our area are real and ongoing, and this day is an important reminder of how much we can accomplish when we come together. I'm proud that our students and staff continue to lead this event, and that their service to the community extends well beyond this single day."

Food for the Day of Giving was donated from the University, Eastern Eats, Sysco Connecticut, Sardilli Produce, Sun Roasters Coffee, Duva Distributors, and Dawson Florist. The food was prepared by Eastern Eats, the University’s dining service, and included roasted turkey breast, mashed potatoes, stuffing, gravy, green beans and carrots, tossed salad, cranberry sauce, pies, cookies, and brownies.

More than 75 students, faculty, and staff served at the event, along with volunteers from Horizons, a developmental disabilities program in South Windham. Eastern provided transportation via university shuttle buses from Ashton Towers, Father Honan Terrace, and Covenant Soup Kitchen.