ELMIRA, N.Y. (WENY)-- The late Dr. Martin Luther King Junior once said that everyone can be great because anyone can serve. The Economic Opportunity Program held its annual 'Together We Dine' event at the Ernie Davis Center in honor of the late Dr. King.  Many braced the freezing temperatures to give back to the community. 

'' Food is the number one unifier, but food security is big and it is a major challenge for people. So, we want to feed people so that they get a nice warm meal today - that is what Dr. King wanted for his community. To feed people, feed the soul, and be healthy,'' said Anita Lewis - the Chief Development Officer at the Elmira Economic Opportunity Program. 

Dr. King was all about humanity and equal rights. With this mindset, he also believed that everyone should have easy access to food.  The Elmira EOP has been giving back to the community on Martin Luther King Day for over two decades. 

''I think a lot of people do not what the EOP has to offer. There are so many programs and services here that people should know about,'' said Stephanie Maslin who volunteered at the event. 

Hundreds of food packages were distributed today to the public. The public had the option to order food packages and a volunteer would deliver the packages to them at home.  Many came out to pick up food for themselves and family. 

Traditionally, hundreds would gather at the Ernie Davis Center for the annual 'Together We Dine' celebration, where there would be food and live entertainment. Due to the pandemic, the decision was made to have a drive-thru takeaway option.  

The EOP offers a wide variety of programs and services that are free to the public. You can find out more by visiting their website