Friendsgiving Lunch Brings Holiday Warmth to Monterey County’s Most Vulnerable
Salinas, CA – 11/21/2025
Interim, Inc. hosted its annual Friendsgiving Lunch today at the OMNI Resource Center in Salinas, welcoming over 200 clients and community members, including individuals experiencing homelessness or living with mental health challenges. The lunch also served an additional 50+ meals to Interim’s residential and service programs. The cherished event has been supported by the generosity of Coastal Roots Hospitality for the past 5 years. For individuals who may otherwise face the holidays alone, Interim, Inc.’s annual Friendsgiving Lunch at the OMNI Resource Center offers more than a meal — it offers connection, dignity, and a sense of belonging.
Coastal Roots Hospitality partners with Interim, Inc. to provide over 500 free meals during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. Tarpy’s Roadhouse caters the meals enjoyed by the event attendees. Markon Cooperative Inc. and its suppliers also partner to donate produce.
“Friendsgiving is about more than a holiday meal — it’s about reminding people that they matter and that they belong. For many of our clients, this is the only holiday celebration they’ll experience, and thanks to our partners and volunteers, it becomes a moment of dignity and connection.”, said Interim, Executive Director Rhiyan Quiton.
“At Interim, we often talk about housing, healing, and hope — and on days like this, we see all three in action. Friendsgiving brings our community together in a way that is deeply meaningful for the people we serve.”, said Interim event coordinator, Lisa Corpuz.
The holiday meals also reflect Coastal Roots Hospitality’s commitment to giving back and fostering community connections through food and fellowship. Coastal Roots Hospitality is “dedicated to inspiring healthier, more vibrant communities by connecting people with quality food prepared and served with honesty and integrity”, making this annual commitment a meaningful investment in the community they help nourish year-round.
About Interim, Inc.
Interim, Inc. is Monterey County’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to providing housing, healing, and hope to adults living with mental illness. With a range of services, including affordable housing, mental health treatment, and peer support, Interim helps clients on their path to recovery and independence.
About the OMNI Resource Center
The OMNI Resource Center is Monterey County’s only peer, and family-member-run mental health wellness center, offering free programs and services designed to promote wellness, recovery, and social connection.
Media Contact
Jocelyn Brady
(831) 649-4522
