Thanksgiving Free Meal: There are more than 40 million food-insecure people in the US, including some who live in the Rockford region and won’t be eating Thanksgiving dinner this year.
For this reason, a number of organizations are offering free Thanksgiving dinners to anyone in the neighborhood.
Thanksgiving Free Meal
Rockford Rescue Mission
The day before Thanksgiving is the mission’s annual Thanksgiving banquet. Turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes with gravy, sweet potatoes, green beans, and pie are served for dinner.
Time: 12:00
Date: November 22
Address: Rockford, 715 W. State St.
Court Street United Methodist Church
On Thanksgiving Day, Court Street United Methodist Church will host its 42nd annual free Thanksgiving meal. In addition to mashed potatoes, dressing, and turkey, the drive-through restaurant sells other food. Carryout is offered.
Time: 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Date: 23 Nov.
Address: Rockford, 215 N. Court St.
Auburn High School
This Sunday at Auburn High School, the VanVleet Family Foundation, founded by NBA All-Star Fred VanVleet, will be distributing turkeys along with all the fixings.
Time: From 2 to 5 p.m.
Date: 19 Nov.
Address: Rockford, 5110 Auburn St.
Thanksgiving 2023: Date, History, Celebrations, Wishes, and More
Northern Illinois Food Bank
These complimentary Thanksgiving meal kits, which are a part of the Northern Illinois Food Bank’s Holiday Meal Box Programme, serve six to eight people. All the fixings—turkey, ham, or vegetarian option—as well as corn, green beans, dry pinto beans, dry potatoes, cranberry sauce, hot chocolate, dessert mix, and canned yams—come with every package. There will be meal distributions throughout November and December.
Time: Thursday and Friday from 1 to 6 p.m.
When: All of November and December
Address in Rockford is 766 Research Parkway.
Miss Carly’s
On Thanksgiving, Miss Carly’s will be handing away complimentary turkey sandwiches all day. Free coffee will also be available.
Time: All day
Date: 23 Nov.
Address: Rockford, 1125 Fifth Avenue
Community Centre in the Northwest
This Saturday at the Northwest Community Centre in Rockford, the Kendel Sherman Foundation is hosting a free community Thanksgiving supper.
Time: From 2 to 5 p.m.
Day: November 18
Address: Rockford, 325 N. Johnston Ave.
The Father’s House Church
The day before Thanksgiving, The Father’s House will offer its annual free Thanksgiving supper. Turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, and other foods are served at the feast. The church also gives away coats and warm clothing at this annual event.
Time: 3:00–5:00 p.m.
Date: November 22
Address: Freeport, 302 W. Stephenson St.
