Photos courtesy of Sister Roma
Sister Roma, Juan Davila of the San Francisco Bay Times, and others helped out with the 2023 Tenderloin Tessie free Christmas Dinner offered to all who came to the event, held at the First Unitarian Church (1187 Franklin Street), on December 25.
Live entertainment was provided by Vanessa Bousay, who was joined briefly onstage by The Grinch (Davila). In addition to the meal and show, free haircuts were provided by a LoveCuts barbershop pop-up. Guests also received a free gift bag and clothing from St. Anthony’s, which partners with Tenderloin Tessie Holiday Dinners.
“Tessie” was the drag name of Perry Spink, a local performer and bartender who began the tradition of serving free holiday meals in 1974. Although Spink died in 1984, the tradition he started has continued. The next free holiday meal will be served on Easter, followed by Thanksgiving, and full circle back to Christmas.
The Bay Times thanks all who help to continue Spink’s legacy, and especially Michael Gagne, who is President of the Tenderloin Tessie Board.
http://www.tenderlointessie.com
Published on January 11, 2023
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