City Hall Restaurant Hosts Final Christmas Eve Lunch For Homeless As It Prepares To Close For Good

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- A TriBeCa restaurant served up a holiday feast for the city's homeless on Christmas Eve – for the very last time.

As CBS2's Janet Wu reported Thursday, 300 men, women and children were feeling at home at the elegant City Hall Restaurant, at 131 Duane St.

"Nice dinner that they prepared for us," said Bronx shelter resident Kathy Williams. "I really love the food here."

For the 17th year, City Hall Restaurant hosted families from the city's shelters with a traditional feast, a visit from Santa Claus, and toys for every child.

Judy Newton has volunteered every year.

"These kids have no place to go in society. They're stuck in the homeless shelters," Newton said. "And this is the reason why I do this."

"There's people that actually care about the homeless that's in the shelters, and our little ones," Msaid Andy Ulysesse, who is homeless with four children, "and we thank you."

It has been a labor of love for chef an owner Henry Meer. He broke down on Thursday as he announced this year's homeless lunch will be the last.

"I love what we do here at City Hall. I love our hospitality. I love our food. I love that we've created a real community," Meer said.

As WCBS 880's Marla Diamond reported, the restaurant is closing on New Year's Eve.

"We can't afford to stay in business, not just because of the high rents, but also the economic restrictions the government actually puts on us," Meer said.

The tradition will be missed by those served, and by those serving

"It's actually sort of fun to see how really happy it makes people," said Julia Schwartz, 11.

"Turkey, mashed potatoes, veggies -- It's very hot, so that's good," said Bronx shelter resident Eldridrika Chaplain. "It's delicious. It really is."

"We struggle to make ends meet, but at the end of the day, it's events like this that save us," said Jennifer Sundberg, who is homeless with a baby.

Doris Diaz, who is living at a shelter on Staten Island, also wanted to say thanks.

"It comes from his heart and God bless him. By doing good stuff and coming from the heart, that's good," she said.

And while the restaurant could not be saved, it is hoped the event will find a home elsewhere so the tradition can live on.

Meer plans to open a wine store in Lower Manhattan next year.