Free Community Thanksgiving Dinner To Take Place In Wallingford

WALLINGFORD, CT — Organizers are making final preparations for the Wallingford Community Dinners, Inc.’s annual Thanksgiving dinner next week.

The free meal event will take place from 12 noon to 2 p.m. on Nov. 27 at First Congregational Church of Wallingford at 23 South Main Street in Wallingford.

The nonprofit group has been serving the community for more than 40 years by providing dinners to those in need on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter.

Wallingford Community Dinners, Inc. President Kathy Wallace said things are going “really well” heading into next week’s dinner.

“We’re deep into our Thanksgiving dinner preparations,” she said. “We are grateful for our volunteers. Their time, energy, and kindness make this event possible each year. We’re feeling hopeful and excited for a strong turnout.”

Wallace said this year they have a “dedicated team of organizers along with a wonderful group of between 80 and 100 volunteers who show up year after year.”

“Their commitment is what brings this dinner to life,” she said.

Pre-ordered meals will also be delivered to the homebound. They are currently taking reservations for homebound Thanksgiving meal deliveries through Monday, Nov. 24, according to Wallace.

With the prices of groceries on the rise, Wallace said the group needs more donations to help support these events.

“Rising food costs are always something we keep an eye on, especially since we rely so heavily on donations,” she said. “It definitely impacts what we’re able to purchase, but we’re incredibly fortunate to have a generous community behind us. We’re still in need of monetary donations to support our events. Donations help ensure we provide a warm meal to everyone who needs one.”

Wallace said they’re anticipating that need may be higher this year, and are preparing extra food “just in case.”

“Our goal is to make sure anyone seeking a warm Thanksgiving meal, whether they’re facing food insecurity or simply alone for the holiday, has a place at our table,” she said. “We also recognize that food needs don’t disappear after the holidays, so we’re working to help fill that gap. This February, Wallingford Community Dinners will be hosting a new in-person pasta dinner at the church to continue supporting our neighbors through the winter months. The pasta dinner will be from 4 to 6 p.m. on Feb 21 with a snow date of Feb. 28.”

Wallace said the Thanksgiving event is a “reminder of what community really means.”

“It’s about showing up for one another with kindness, no questions asked,” she said. “It’s one day where everyone is welcome, everyone is cared for, and everyone is fed. For the community, it’s a gathering built on compassion. It brings people together, fills an important need, and reflects the generosity of our community.”

Wallace also said the group “would love for everyone to help spread the word.”

“Whether it’s by volunteering, donating, or simply sharing information with someone who might need a meal, every bit of support matters,” she said. “This dinner is truly a community effort, and we’re grateful for everyone who helps make it happen.”

Anyone interesting in making a donation, should make it payable to Wallingford Community Dinners, Inc, PO Box 211, Wallingford, CT 06492. Donations are also accepted at its website here.

To volunteer, or register to have a meal delivered, call 203-514-8883 or email WallingfordCommunityDinners@gmail.com.