The First United Methodist Church in Bellefontaine will host its 22nd Annual Thanksgiving Meal for Logan County residents this Thanksgiving. Spearheading the meal preparation is church member Sharon Walden of Bellefontaine. Walden has led the efforts of an army of volunteers for 12 years. She said the meal’s origins can be traced to an Easter meal the church started that wasn’t successful. The church decided to move the meal to Thanksgiving, which has grown in popularity over the years.
Her information shows that the meal on Thanksgiving served approximately 425 people in the first few years. Last year, Walden said, nearly 700 meals were served. Pastor Joe Ziraldo stated that the meals served during the Covid years saw 800 meals being served to area residents. Ziraldo speaks about the meal:
According to Walden, over 100 volunteers show up the day before Thanksgiving to begin preparing the meal. The entire meal is made at the church, except for the pies, which are made by church members and volunteers. That way, all the ingredients are the same and come from the same suppliers.
The menu will consist of a traditional homemade Thanksgiving meal: Turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy, sweet potatoes, corn, green beans, cranberry sauce, rolls, and homemade dessert.
Walden said they are taking orders for delivery for Logan County only, and those requests need to be placed by Tuesday, November 26th, at 3:00 PM. Additionally, they could use more serving helpers. To order delivery or to volunteer, call the church office at 937-592-9651. Ziraldo asked that people not leave a voicemail. If the call goes to voicemail, he asks for people to call again.
