Story by Michael Potter; Submitted by Sharon Challenger
(December 9, 2025) — While most teens spent the days before Thanksgiving relaxing, brothers Matthew and Tyler Medina — both sophomores at Haddam-Killingworth High School — were hard at work in their family kitchen. In the days leading up to the holiday, the high schoolers purchased and prepared everything needed for fifteen Thanksgiving meals, which they delivered to elderly residents across Killingworth on November 24, 2025.
The brothers coordinated their effort with Mercedes Ricciuti, the Municipal Agent at Killingworth Town Hall, who provided a list of residents who could benefit from a homemade holiday meal. Once the names were set, Matthew and Tyler began gathering ingredients and organizing their cooking schedule.
With the help of their mother, the Medinas prepared a traditional feast that included roast turkey, mashed potatoes, green beans, and stuffing. After hours of cooking and packaging, the brothers personally delivered each meal, greeting residents with warm smiles and holiday cheer.
Their goal was simple: to help put a smile on an individual’s face this holiday.
The deliveries were met with gratitude, and for many recipients, the visit meant just as much as the meal. The Medinas hope to make the project a yearly tradition and inspire other young people to spread kindness within their communities.
