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Efforts to put out free meals shows Christmas spirit

Bouquets and Barbs

Bouquet: In the spirit of the holiday season, two area churches again are stepping forward to offer a free meal to the community.

The first will be Sunday evening at Grace United Methodist Church of Norway, a dinner of ham, cheesy potatoes, vegetable and dessert. Alas, Friday was the deadline for reservations to get a meal by takeout or delivery, due to the large turnout at the church’s November meal, organizers said. It’s not unreasonable to ask to know how many meals need to be packaged, given dining in for now is not possible because of COVID-19 restrictions. The church served about 150 meals in 2019.

Friday, First Presbyterian Church of Kingsford will provide hot ham meals on Christmas day, again by delivery or pick-up from 11 a.m. to noon at the church at 395 Hamilton Ave. in Kingsford.

Reservations also are requested by calling the church office at 906-774-4211, with the deadline being Wednesday.

Last year’s tally was about 650 meals; they’re expecting to serve roughly 700 this year.

To keep everyone safe, meals will be left on the doorstep and those delivering will call to alert the person when they arrive.

“No one will be going into the homes this year,” said Mary Jean Larson, church secretary.

Which is unfortunate — some who are homebound probably appreciate the friendly visit almost as much as the meal. Still, to maintain this tradition in its 27th year, some adjustments had to be made for social distancing.

Yet even in these challenging times, both churches were determined to continue providing such meals.

“We are pretty excited to still be able to offer this again this year,” Larson said.

In both cases, the meal is free and open to anyone who wants one, but those who can should consider giving a donation to help cover costs.

Want to give in a different way? If able, consider volunteering to deliver meals.

The contact person for Grace United Methodist Church of Norway is organizer Chris Spence at 906-282-9752. The office for First Presbyterian Church of Kingsford is 906-774-4211.

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