by Jonathan Weaver
Currently 90 local residents are registered to partake in Ford Memorial United Methodist Church’s annual free Thanksgiving dinner in Ford City.
But, registration will continue through tomorrow and will probably continue next week, Organizer Janice Bernot said.
“There will be still be people next week (calling in) – and that’s fine. (Early registrations) are basically to give us an idea how much to prepare,” Janice said. “It’s not a set-in-stone reservation.”
“This is the ninth year- it started because we sensed there was a need with a lot of the older population in the community. People in the high-rises were sitting in their apartments by themselves, and we didn’t like that idea” Janice added. “They had been coming here for Advent and Lenten services and really enjoyed the fellowship.”
The goal initially was not to serve take-out dinners because of the fellowship, but those will continue this holiday.
Every year, turkeys are donated by Penn United Technologies in Cabot (Butler County).
Also, Ford City Eagles members “have really stepped up” this year with a monetary donation, husband Tom said.
But, no donation bins or collection plates will be passed around before or after dinner Thursday afternoon.
“We don’t want the less-fortunate to feel intimidated,” Tom said. “There’s so many in this community that just don’t have it. This is a way that we can reach out.”
For the past nine years, it has also become the Bernot’s Thanksgiving meal as well.
“Our family has become part of this group,” Janice said. “This is our Thanksgiving.”
Pastors Ali and Wade Berkey will also attend the dinner, and will offer prayer and hear prayer requests at each table prior to the meal.
Those still interested in attending the free dinner – which will be held from noon until 1PM Thanksgiving Day and includes roast turkey, stuffing balls and mashed potatoes – should call 724-763-1883.