The Mel Trotter Ministries’ annual Thanksgiving meal returns this year. Last year the in person gathering was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Pre-packaged meals were put together and distributed at local pantries. This year people can once again gather together for a warm Thanksgiving meal. This meal is open to  individuals and families experiencing homelessness, as well as anyone in the greater Grand Rapids community who is looking for fellowship around a Thanksgiving table.

Mel Trotter Ministries is expecting to serve more than 1,500 people this year. The Community Meal will be in the ballroom at DeVos Place Convention Center at 303 Monroe Avenue NW in downtown Grand Rapids. It will be from 11 am to 1 pm on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 25th, 2021. There will also be free parking.

Mel Trotter Ministries has been doing the Community Thanksgiving Dinner since 1996.  They typically serve over 1,500 pounds of turkey, along with 1,260 pounds of mashed potatoes, 50 gallons of gravy, 200 pies and many more side dishes and desserts.

In addition this year, Mel Trotter is working with Cherry Health to offer a free COVID-19 vaccine clinic. The clinic will run from 10 am until noon.

A lot of families like to find a way to help out and serve the community during this holiday time. There are still a few opportunities available to volunteer for various jobs leading up to and the day of the event. If you would like more information on volunteering, here is the link.

Mel Trotter also needs more sponsorships to help cover the cost of the meal. If you would like to donate, here is the link to do that.

Here is a story on the event from WOOD TV-8 from the last in-person gathering in 2019...

 

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