Struggling families who otherwise wouldn’t be able to sit down to a Thanksgiving dinner will be able to enjoy one today thanks to local churches and civic groups. Several organizations and churches are offering a traditional meal of turkey and dressing, trimmed with all the fixings, in an effort to make sure everyone has a full stomach this Thanksgiving.

Families can simply come by the participating locations to package their meals to take home; however, organizers have also set up tables and chairs for those who prefer to enjoy their food in a festive atmosphere that will be offered onsite.

Feed the Sheep Ministries, a nonprofit group in Bremen, will host its 8th Annual Free Thanksgiving Dinner from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Bremen Senior Citizens Center, which is located at 425 River Circle in Bremen.

FTSM Founder Bernice Glass says delivery services are also available solely to the elderly, sick and home-confined individuals who live in Haralson County. Orders for delivery and pick-up can be requested by calling FTSM at 770-537-2705. Glass stressed the importance of her holiday effort, supported by her family and volunteers, to “assure that no person goes without a good meal and loved ones” on one of the most important days of the year.

In addition, Liberty Christian Church in Buchanan will be serving dinner from noon to 4 p.m. in the meeting room of Buchanan City Hall. Pastor Michael Wallace says people in need of assistance can also pick up canned goods during their visit until their supply has run out. The church’s holiday initiatives come as part of its ongoing outreach services that are extended to the public. Wallace said his church is dedicated to supporting the community, particularly less fortunate families who are fighting to stay afloat during such hard economic times.

“The church’s responsibility is to support the community, especially in these times. This dinner will give people a chance to have a hot meal, laugh and not be alone for the holidays,” Wallace said. “We want to make sure people know that we’re giving away canned goods from our canned food pantry, which we’ll be passing out until they are gone.”

Calvary Baptist Church member, Howard Yarborough, also extends a dining invitation on Thanksgiving day at his church, which is located at 312 Atlantic Ave. in Bremen. Acknowledging the effort as “a day to help someone else,” he shared that their dinner begins at noon.

The Covenant Life Church in Bremen is also celebrating the spirit of giving this holiday season by holding a community dinner on Monday nights throughout the holiday season. One of the organizers, Jessica Tumi, says the sanctuary is transformed at the event to feed more than 100 people. For more information about the dinner schedule, she encourages individuals to call 770-537-3747, or visit www.covenantlifebremen.org.