By Scott Halasz
XENIA — A yearly Xenia tradition continues Thursday, Nov. 24 when the Xenia Adult Recreation and Services Center will host the free community Thanksgiving day meal.
Meals will be served 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and all are welcome. Around 600 meals are expected to be served and those who can’t get out, can have one delivered.
The event is a collaborative between the Xenia Area Association of Churches & Ministries, the Xenia Adult Recreation and Services Center and the City of Xenia in order to spread good will in the city.
“There are a lot of folks in Xenia that want to show love to their neighbors and friends,” said Xenia City Council member Sarah Mays, who helps organize the meal deliveries. “Holidays can be lonely. Having a free meal accomplishes several things. First, it meets people’s physical needs. People need to eat, and sometimes finances can be hard, especially during holidays. So having a free meal meets physical needs. Plus, I believe Meals on Wheels does not deliver on Thanksgiving. So again, meeting that physical need is important for those who are dependent on meal deliveries.”
Mays added that for those who can’t get out, having the meal delivered gives them a chance to chat with a friendly face — the volunteer who delivers their meal.
“It’s our goal that people are given an opportunity to socialize and be around others on the holiday,” she said.
WGC Golf Course is donating the turkeys, which are cooked and prepared by Groceryland. Other items, including rolls, green beans and mashed potatoes are donated by other businesses. The City of Xenia provides pies. via donations from staff and residents. XAACM provides the rest, with help from donors including Greene Memorial Hospital. WGC is able to provide the turkeys through funds raised at its annual October golf outing, according to Mays.
To request a delivery or volunteer, contact Mays at 937-241-8873 or email [email protected]. Delivery requests should be made no later than 5 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 23. To donate a pie or funds for a pie, contact city administration at 937-376-7232.
The Xenia Adult Recreation and Services Center is at 130 E. Church St.
