(November 2022 file photo)

SIDNEY -- The Sidney Elks Lodge members are continuing the tradition of sharing Thanksgiving with neighbors ... and friends ... and people you may not have met yet.

The annual free Thanksgiving dinner will be held 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, November 21. The menu will include the traditional Thanksgiving feast of ham, turkey, gravy and potatoes, vegetables and of course pie.

The celebration meal is offered at no cost. It is sponsored by ALLO, Tallgrass and 987 The Big Boy. There will be donation jars available with proceeds supporting the Elks renovation project and the Teammates program.

The event is also supported by volunteers helping with food service, meal delivery and clean-up afterward. 

The concept of a free community Thanksgiving meal started when Jeannette Ford served Thanksgiving lunch from her store in downtown Sidney. The meal was free with donations supporting specific organizations. Ford was often heard hosting Thanksgiving was her way of giving back to the community, and support those who may not have a Thanksgiving.

"We at the Elks decided it was worth continuing," said Heather Shaw.

Delivery is available by calling (308) 249-4789 by 9 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 21

The Elks will also continue to take volunteers until 9 a.m. Nov 21. To volunteer, contact Shaw at 308-250-1651.