Mr. Bagel will once again offer a free meal on Thanksgiving Day, November 23, beginning at noon. This is the eighth year that a meal has been served to those who either find themselves alone on the holiday or are unable to prepare a meal.

The meal is organized and funded solely by volunteers while Mr. Bagel generously provides the use of its space for prepping and serving. Transportation is available, as is delivery for those wanting to remain at home.

Last year, 36 volunteers prepared 110 meals. The majority were delivered to homes in Gorham, Windham, Westbrook, Portland, and South Portland. Volunteers took on varying roles from baking pies to delivering meals.

According to Roxanne Moody, who coordinates the annual effort with help from family and friends, “The Gorham Fire Department preps 50 pounds of potatoes for this every year; our community helps tremendously with making and baking food, delivering the meals and with monetary donations.”

While the meal is free, anyone wishing to make a donation can do so. All donations benefit the Gorham Food Pantry. A donation of $1,060 was made to the Pantry last year.