"We'd rather raise up 10 people than reach out to a thousand," Jansen says.
That doesn't work with everyone, of course. Jansen says there's always the occasional disruptive influence — someone who insists on arriving at the center intoxicated or in some other uncooperative state.
He insists that they leave — but invites them to return when they're feeling better.
"God bless 'em, they usually do," he says.
It seems to have worked with Schaefle. He first learned of Emmaus when a volunteer found him sleeping on a sidewalk across the street and invited him in. Today he lives with four other men in a house in Severna Park, collects the disability he's due and has become such a beloved figure that he's often the butt of good-natured ribbing.
"He's our poster boy," says Jansen, joking that with his full beard and long hair, Fred makes for a striking symbol of homelessness in publicity photos.
Schaefle isn't sure how he'll serve on Thanksgiving yet, but he'll do whatever's asked: heat up food, clean up afterward or simply chat up guests, many of whom will have come straight from encampments in the woods. (A longtime pianist, he'll also play background music, likely heavy on Rolling Stones classics.)
The feast will be held not at Emmaus but at St. Christopher's Episcopal Church in Linthicum Heights, which has more dining space.
Hudgens says the staff still needs donations — a couple of turkeys, several canned side dishes, perhaps some powdered drinks, bread, pies and cakes — to fill out the full menu.
Whatever the menu consists of, though, she looks forward to serving more than food.
"Everyone and anyone is welcome," she says. "All we ask is that you let us know you're coming [by the day before] so we can plan. That, and be ready to get a lot of hugs."
If you go
Emmaus Center Thanksgiving Mass and Dinner
Where: St. Christopher's Episcopal Church, 116 Marydell Road, Linthicum Heights
When: Mass at 10 a.m (instead of a homily, guests will be invited to share what they're thankful for); dinner noon to 2 p.m.
Admission: Free, but reservations are requested. Call the Emmaus Center by Wednesday, Nov. 23, to notify the staff.
Rides from the Emmaus Center, 407 S. Crain Highway, Glen Burnie, to St. Christopher's Church will be provided between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m.
Information: 410-766-7729
