Turning Point Recovery Community Center hosts annual Friendsgiving dinner

PADUCAH, Ky. (KBSI) – The folks at Turning Point Recovery Community Center know the holidays can be difficult for some, but each Thanksgiving, the center offers a place for the community to come and gather as one.”

“It is so important that we’re here for them.” 

And that is exactly what director Brandon Fitch and the others and Turning Point strive for each and every day, but especially on Thanksgiving when they host their Friendsgiving dinner. 

“You get to see the smile on their face, just the sense of belonging to a family, whether it be their biological family or the family that they’ve created with us here in recovery,” Fitch said.

Fitch said the holidays can weigh on people who feel alone. 

“Some of us could think about doing the things we used to do and going back to active addiction, so having a safe place to go to is so so valuable,” he said.

Brian Wathen, adult peer support specialist at Edgewater Recovery, enjoyed Friendsgiving with his 10-month old daughter Nola. 

“It’s a blessing. It’s amazing, and I can’t put it into words,” Wathen said. “I am a recovering addict, and today I get to be present in her life, and it’s hard to describe. It’s a huge blessing.” 

And Wathen says being able to spend time with his little girl… 

“Keeps my heart full.” 

Truly a special day here at Turning Point, and certainly one to be thankful for.