Robert Hope of Ypsilanti enjoys a warm meal during Wednesday afternoon's 9th annual Christmas dinner organized by DaVinci Fund Raising.

Lon Horwedel | AnnArbor.com

Leonardo Christian was once homeless for a short time due to substance abuse problems and says he can relate to the plight of others - especially in the current economic times.

Since 2000, Christian has been organizing free holiday dinners. Today, his efforts came together as roughly 30 volunteers and several restaurants contributed their time and food to help feed the less fortunate in Ypsilanti.

"I love doing what I've been doing," Christian said.

Organizer Leonardo Christian

The dinner was held between noon and 5 p.m. at Korey's Krispy Krunchy Chicken and Coops Charity Poker Room at 124 Pearl St.

Dozens of people at a time, many of them children, came in out of the cold and waited while the busy staff rushed to seat and serve them a hot meal. They enjoyed plates of fried chicken, mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, salad, and other dishes - along with pie or cake for dessert.

Some of the restaurants that contributed food included Korey's, Aubree's Pizzeria & Tavern, Pub 13, Sidetrack Bar and Grill, and Haab's Restaurant.

The dinner has gained steam in its nine years of existence. Last year, Christian said volunteers fed 767 people. This year, he expected 1,000.

Garrett Cooper, who runs the charity poker room where the dinner was held, said helping out the less fortunate is big part of his life. The money from his charity poker games goes to various community charities, but he seldom sees how it's used. Cooper said it was great to watch charity in action today.

"This is real cool to see," Garrett said.

Donna Miller brought her sons David and Joey to help out by serving food. She also bought 100 sets of crayons and coloring books for the kids, even though she recently lost her job of 17 years. She said she still counts herself lucky because her husband is employed.

Lamara Wilson, 1, of Ypsilanti, enjoys a bite of macaroni and cheese being fed to her by her 10-year-old cousin, Nybrionna Lewis.

Lon Horwedel | AnnArbor.com

First-year volunteer Maudi Abraham was so busy seating incoming people that she barely had time to talk. When she found a moment, she marveled at how upbeat many of the patrons are, no matter what their circumstances.

Margo Baker, who described herself as a volunteer from the recovery community of former alcoholics and drug users, said helping out makes her feel both good and sad. She said it's especailly true when she sees all the families coming in for a free meal.

"There are no words to describe giving back to the community," Baker said.

David Wak is a freelance writer for AnnArbor.com. Reach the news desk at news@annarbor.com or 734-623-2530.