Several groups are stepping up to offer free Thanksgiving meals to Aroostook County residents.
It’s been a fall of food uncertainty, with the longest government shutdown in history disrupting benefits and families being challenged by continually increasing costs. Across Maine, demand for free meals for Thursday’s holiday is on the rise.
Some County businesses and organizations started early with food drives, such as Hospice of Aroostook and United Ag & Turf. Others have served pre-Thanksgiving meals, including the Presque Isle Saints Motorcycle Club.
On Thanksgiving Day, the following groups will welcome anyone who hungers for community along with their turkey.
Caribou
11 a.m.: The Lister-Knowlton Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9389, located at 253 Van Buren Rd., will host a social time and meal. Doors open at 11 a.m. and dinner will be served at 1 p.m. The cost is by donation and all are welcome.
3 p.m.: Ruska Coffee invites anyone who needs a family, is alone or struggling to join in a community meal at the cafe, located at 98 Sweden St. There is no cost.
Houlton
11 a.m.-2 p.m.: St. Mary of the Visitation Parish will host its annual free Thanksgiving Day dinner at St. Anthony’s Hall, 110 Military St. There is no charge. Dinner will also be available for takeout.
Madawaska
11 a.m.: The Aroostook Agency on Aging will host dinner on Thanksgiving Day as part of its community meal series at the Knights of Columbus hall, 172 Fox St. Anyone 60 and over who do not receive home-delivered meals are welcome. There is no cost but donations are encouraged.
Presque Isle
11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.: The Central Aroostook Association will host dinner, sponsored by Framework Church and County Cares, at 125 Lombard St. Delivery is available. For more details contact Cory at 554-4542.
11 a.m.-1 p.m.: For anyone in the local community who is unable to prepare or afford a holiday meal, Framework Church, located at 387 Centerline Road, will provide either a sit-down or delivered dinner. Call the church at 207-764-5187 for information.
2 p.m.-4 p.m.: Family Worship Center plans a free drive-thru or delivery dinner. People can pick up meals at the center, located at 265 Caribou Rd., or can message them on Facebook to receive delivery.
