How to go
What: Free Thanksgiving dinner
Where: Central Christian Church, 1200 Forrer Blvd., Kettering
When: 1 to 4 p.m. Nov. 26 (Thanksgiving Day)
More info: 937-254-2649
Seven years ago a member of Kettering Christian Church found he was alone for the first time for Thanksgiving. He realized he could spend it alone or do something nice for others. When he recognized that he was not the only person alone, there wasn’t a Thanksgiving dinner in Kettering and there was a great kitchen at the church, he and his team of volunteers hosted the first Community Thanksgiving Dinner at Central Kettering Christian Church.
This year the church, located at 1200 Forrer Blvd. in Kettering, will host its annual Community Thanksgiving Dinner from 1 to 4 p.m. Nov. 26. Those planning on attending should call the church (937) 254-2649 to give their name and number attending.
Melinda Kaye, a church member eventually took over the organization of the dinner. “People come for different reasons, but what I love to see is the person who will take a dinner to a neighbor. That is gratitude and thanksgiving,” she said. “Dinner is served buffet style and the seating is family style, so everyone can chat and get to know one another as they break bread together.”
Pastor Liz DeWeese says the dinner is much more than a free dinner. “It provides a place for people who are alone, unable to cook, unable to travel,” she said. “People who attend include those experiencing their first holiday without a spouse or unable to cook due to health reasons. We provide a place to be with people who care. It is an opportunity for church to be church which is so much more than charity; it is about connecting with people where they are and sharing together what is good in life.”
The dinner includes more than 250 pounds of turkey, 105 pounds of potatoes, five pounds of butter, nine cups of brown sugar, 10 quarts of chicken broth, 19 cups of marshmallows and more.
The church is looking for volunteers to help prepare the meal, serve the meal and clean-up following the meal. Anyone interested in learning more about volunteering should call the church at 937-254-2649.
Last year the church served more than 150 guests. They are expecting more than 200 guests this year.
About the Author