With the financial challenges of the coronavirus pandemic, many River Valley residents are looking for ways to continue enjoying Thanksgiving.
Churches, nonprofits, and businesses are offering free holiday meals with community gatherings in November.
First Presbyterian Church
5:00 p.m., November 7; 116 N. 12th St., Fort Smith
On the first Sunday of each month, the First Presbyterian Church hosts a meal that is open to the public. The first Sunday in November will be the church’s Thanksgiving meal.
Saint-Boniface Catholic Church
11 a.m. to 1 p.m., November 21; 1820 N. B Street, Fort Smith
The Thanksgiving meal at the Saint-Boniface Catholic Church will take place in the parish hall, located at the corner of North 19e and North C.
The Salvation Army Fort Smith
11 a.m. to 1 p.m., November 25; 301 N. 6th St., Fort Smith
This year, the Salvation Army at Fort Smith will be hosting a Thanksgiving lunch with 300 meals.
The organization is seeking donations for these meals, including 20 turkeys, six gallons of milk and 60 pies or cakes. The full list of items needed can be found at The Salvation Army website at Fort Smith.
Riverview Campus of Hope
10 a.m. and 4 p.m., November 25; 301 S. E St., Fort Smith
The Riverview Hope Campus will host its annual Thanksgiving lunch and dinner. Meals are open to the public and residents of the HOPE campus.
Reid’s Hometown BBQ
10 a.m. to 2 p.m., November 25; 42 W. Main Street, Booneville
With turkey, buns, mashed potatoes and more, your family can enjoy a delicious meal at Reid’s Hometown Barbecue. The restaurant will also offer take-out and delivery to Booneville.
Broadway Joe’s Cafe
11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on November 25; 313 W. Shawntel Smith Blvd., Muldrow, Oklahoma
Broadway Joe’s Cafe offers a free meal on Thanksgiving Day. You can enjoy a sit-down or take-out meal.
Midland Heights United Methodist Church
12:00 p.m., Nov. 25, 3500 N. 6th St .; Fort Smith
On Thanksgiving Day in Midland Heights, you can find lunch with all the preparations. Masks are optional.
Catherine Nolte is a member of the body of Report for America, a national service program that places reporters in local newsrooms. She can be contacted at cnolte@swtimes.com. Southwest Times Record and Report for America are working to place a new generation of journalists in community news organizations across the country. Are you supporting this effort today?
