There will be free meals for local families in Andrews and Murphy in celebration of the Thanksgiving holiday.
Andrews Middle School will once again share a Thanksgiving meal with local families on the day before the holiday.
“We had to figure out a way to do it,” Principal Lance Bristol said. “It’s important to me.”
This is the third year he is hosting the Community Thanksgiving from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 25, at the school. Bristol grew up in Andrews and understands what it means to the community. He said it’s aimed for those who need help, but no one is ever turned away.
This year it will be held as a drive-through instead of a sit-down meal in the cafeteria. The school will be handing out sealed Chick-fil-A boxes – chicken sandwich, chips, cookie and soft drink – at the entrance of the school. No one will have to exit their vehicle.
The school will have about 250 meals thanks to the generosity of the Andrews Lions Club, Coca-Cola, Andrews United Methodist Church and local volunteer Barbara El-Khouri. The school typically serves about 500 meals at the event. If the demand appears to be just as high this year, Bristol said the school would look into providing more meals.
Meanwhile in Murphy, Connections of Caring Hearts will present a free Thanksgiving dinner Thursday, Nov. 26, at Main Street Diner on Hiwassee Street downtown.
Public servants – like first-responders, many who will be on duty over the national holiday – will be served from 10-11 a.m. The general public will then be served from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., as long as food lasts.
Everyone is welcome. This meal is being presented at no charge thanks to a local family, donations and volunteers.