Estefans serve meals to those in need for Thanksgiving

HOLLYWOOD, Fla. ā€“ Gloria and Emilio Estefan's 8th annual feed a friend event at Bongo's at the Hardrock in Hollywood was a fun and festive event serving meals to those in need from a dozen different local agencies.

"In the long run, it is about bringing people together," Emilio said. "That is what we do. I think it is a great thing and our hope for the future of the United States because we are one country, one place and we are proud to be part of the community."

"I am so thankful for the Estefans," said Mark Hariton of Big Brother. "And of course, to the Big Brother organization. Also, to my little guy, or my big guy, Trevion."

There was also a kids craft zone to keep the little ones entertained, and plenty of food served up by dozens of volunteers who take time out on their Thanksgiving holiday to give back.Ā 

"How does it make you feel? Happy!" said volunteer Smith Leville. "I am warm on the inside. It is a beautiful feeling and I love giving back. I have been a mentor for over eight years and I feel like it is not a hobby, it is a lifestyle to give back."

In the last seven years, the Estefans have fed over 13 thousand people. Families in transition, the homeless and children in crisis all come for some fun and good food served up by celebrity volunteers.

"Not everyone can afford a Thanksgiving dinner," said volunteer Neki Mohan. "It is priceless and I get to eat."

The Estefans have certainly had a blessed year. They opened a show about their life on broadway and just this week received the freedom medal from President Barack ObamaĀ 

"We flew back here last night," Glorida said. "We got here at about midnight because there was no way we were going to miss this. I think it is a beautiful thing and it is my favorite event of the year being able to share."

They feed thousands of people each and every year. This year was yet another success. They said they feel so blessed and that they really love giving back to South Florida.