In a story that began with an accidental text, Jamal Hinton and Wanda Dench have become an enduring example of unexpected friendship. Nearly a decade ago, a mistaken Thanksgiving dinner invitation brought the then-teenage Hinton and grandmother Dench together, forging a bond that has continued every Thanksgiving since.

In 2016, Jamal, then a 17-year-old high school student, received a text inviting him to Thanksgiving dinner. The sender, Wanda Dench, had intended to reach her grandson, but unbeknownst to her, his number had changed—and Hinton was the new recipient. “The text said, ‘Thanksgiving at my house,’ and it was from a grandma, but I was like, ‘When did my grandma learn to text?’” Hinton told PEOPLE. Amused, Hinton asked for a photo, confirming it wasn’t his grandmother. Rather than dismiss the mistake, Hinton joked, “Can I still get a plate, tho?” Dench responded with warmth, saying, “Of course you can. That’s what grandmas do—feed everyone.” The exchange marked the beginning of an unlikely friendship.

Hinton accepted the real invitation to join Dench’s family for Thanksgiving in 2016. “She’s such a sweet lady,” Hinton recalled. “I just got a vibe from her that made me feel at home.” The young man brought pumpkin pie, and the pair documented the gathering with a now-famous selfie. Their first Thanksgiving together sparked a tradition that has continued for nine years. “It’s a reminder that there are still good people left in the world,” Hinton said.

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Thanksgiving through the years

2017–2019: Deepening friendship
In the years following their initial meeting, Hinton and Dench stayed in touch, celebrating Thanksgiving annually. Photos of the gatherings show smiles, camaraderie, and the presence of Hinton’s girlfriend, Mikaela. Dench’s husband, Lonnie, often joined the celebrations, adding to the warmth of the growing tradition.

2020: Loss and resilience
The COVID-19 pandemic brought challenges to their tradition. Dench’s husband, Lonnie, tragically passed away due to the virus. Despite the grief, Dench and Hinton continued their Thanksgiving tradition, with Dench holding a photo of Lonnie during the 2020 dinner. “This Thanksgiving isn’t the same, but we’ll make the best of it,” Hinton wrote on Instagram, remembering Lonnie as a kind and generous man.

2021–2023: New beginnings
In 2021, Dench reflected on her bond with Hinton. “He literally changed my life,” she said, adding that he shifted her perspective on generational divides. In 2023, the duo partnered with Airbnb to host a guest at Dench’s home, marking another layer of joy in their Thanksgiving tradition. “I love meeting new people and building new friendships,” Hinton shared.

Thanksgiving 2024: A New Chapter Amid Challenges

This year marks the ninth Thanksgiving for the pair, but it comes with new challenges. Dench revealed in October that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer earlier this year and has been undergoing chemotherapy. “Just because you may be older, we still have a lot of life to live,” Dench shared on social media during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. She encouraged others to continue health check-ups and cherish life’s moments.

Despite her diagnosis, Dench confirmed that the Thanksgiving tradition with Hinton will carry on. This year, Hinton is hosting the dinner, ensuring their streak of celebrations remains unbroken. “Looking forward to a day filled with good food, great company, and lasting memories,” he wrote.

A bond that inspires

What began as a humorous misunderstanding has blossomed into a friendship cherished by millions who follow their story. For Hinton and Dench, Thanksgiving isn’t just about food—it’s about connection, kindness, and the power of opening one’s heart to strangers. “Year 9 coming soon!” Hinton teased online as the pair prepared to add another chapter to their extraordinary tradition.