LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — The 2025 Community Thanksgiving Meal, hosted by Compassionate Ministries of Lima, returns Thursday at the Veterans Memorial Civic Center, continuing a decades-long tradition of welcoming anyone seeking food and fellowship.
The event began in 1984 when Chester Cary launched it as a way to bring people together who had no one to spend Thanksgiving with. It has grown significantly since, now drawing thousands for a hot meal and supported by hundreds of volunteers.
Reverend Jonathan Burkey of Compassionate Ministries said the mission remains the same. “Our hope is that there would be no one who would stay home lonely on Thanksgiving Day, but that everyone, if they are lonely, would muster enough courage to come on out, come on down to the civic center and just find the warm welcome of the community and enjoy a hot Thanksgiving meal.”
Burkey said all volunteer positions for the event have been filled. Doors open at 10:30 a.m., and meals will be served until 1 p.m. Procter & Gamble has donated hygiene items that will be bagged and distributed while supplies last. The West Ohio Food Bank will also offer food boxes, and a drive-through line will be available for those who prefer to pick up meals.
