MASSENA — The spirit of giving is alive throughout the year with the Massena Free Community Meal, and not just at holiday time.

Based out of Massena First United Methodist Church, the program is preparing 900 takeout Thanksgiving meals on Wednesday, Nov. 22, from 3-6 p.m.

But the program volunteers are also busy all year, serving meals every Thursday from 4:00-5:30 p.m. with both dine in and take out options.

Since September, the program is once again offering indoor dining, with the subsiding of COVID concerns.

Currently, about 100 community members each week are choosing to dine in, and about 50 meals are still take out.

"Our mission has always been to create a unity within the community by serving a meal to enjoy together. We love to see you come in and share conversations and smiles with others,” said organizer Kathy Perry.

“The original purpose of the meal was to offer a space where people could come to share a meal and enjoy fellowship with each other. We still feel that way,” she said.

Tables are set both for large families or for small groups, so people can sit whereever they are most comfortable. All tables are sanitized after the meal and before set up for the next week.

Takeout meals may not be the same as the posted menu on the Facebook page, due to food availability and whether the meal is appropriate to do as a to-go meal.

“The community meal was started out of a bible study within our church and began as a once per month soup and sandwich lunch. This started almost 15 years ago. We have expanded it to what it is today a once per week dinner on Thursday evenings to either eat in or take out,” said Perry.

Program volunteers come from many of the churches in the area, plus individuals who just want to help the community, said Perry.

Funding comes from individuals, companies, churches, grants and other organizations, including the Food Bank of Central New York.

Donations from individuals, farmers and stores in the community are gladly accepted. To make a donation, contact Kathy Perry at 315-842-1276 or kperry02@twcny.rr.com, or call the Methodist Church office at 315-769-8036.

“We welcome all donations to our program. It is something we are passionate about,” said Perry.