PORT ANGELES — The Salvation Army offered a free community meal on Wednesday in what serves as a preview of special feasts today.
Fifty-nine people, a number fewer than any in the past, showed up for the public luncheon at the Salvation Army church in Port Angeles.
“I feel bad for the folks who didn’t make it in. It was good,” said Major Ron Wehnau on Wednesday.
He and Major Barbara Wehnau said volunteers this year each made one of the sides, specializing in rolls or gravy or other dishes, so all was especially tasty this year.
“We have some really great volunteers,” Major Barbara Wehnau said.
With some 100 to 150 people expected, the Salvation Army has a lot of leftovers, which will all be used for future meals. Nothing will go to waste, the Wehnaus said.
Reasons for the low turnout range from home-bound habits formed during COVID restrictions to the fact that other agencies are returning this year to offering free, public Thanksgiving meals.
The Queen of Angeles Catholic Church offers a feast in the church’s fellowship hall at 213 W. 11th St., Port Angeles, from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. today.
Serenity House of Clallam County will host a Thanksgiving dinner at 4 p.m. today.
The gathering, which is open to the public, will be held in the shelter at 2321 W. 18th St., Port Angeles.
Other meals also are offered today.
In Sequim, Hardy’s Market will offer free Thanksgiving meals of Biryani chicken and rice with pumpkin pie beginning at 11 a.m. today and continuing while supplies last.
The market is located at 10200 Old Olympic Highway.
Meals are for carry-out only.
In Chimacum, a free community Thanksgiving Dinner will be served from noon to 2 p.m. today.
The free dinner can be picked up the Tri-Area Community Center, 10 West Valley Road.
The meals consist of roasted turkey, vegetables, gravy, cranberry sauce, fresh rolls and dessert.
Reservations were requested, but the limit had been reached, according to a voicemail message on the phone at 360-379-4228.
