Patty Hotchkiss Honored

A Canandaigua resident who has provided free Thanksgiving meals to those in need in the community for thirty years was presented a New York State Senate Commendation Award by Senator Pam Helming.

Hotchkiss is the former longtime owner of Patty’s Place restaurant in downtown Canandaigua. Each year, she brings together a team of about 30 volunteers to serve and deliver 200 free meals at both Thanksgiving and Christmas time. These 400 annual meals include special deliveries to low-income and Veteran housing, in addition to donated meals to the Canandaigua Police and Fire Departments. Many local businesses and residents contribute money and in-kind donations to support this community effort, with the Canandaigua Elks Lodge providing use of its kitchen to prepare and package meals.

Canandaigua Town Supervisor Jared Simpson, presenting Patty with a Town Proclamation, said, “Patty Hotchkiss embodies the heart of Canandaigua—a servant leader whose 30 years of dedication have nourished not just stomachs, but spirits. Her warm meals and warmer heart remind us all of the power of community, compassion, and a shared table.”