This Thanksgiving, the Teamsters National Black Caucus and the youth department of Dunn’s Chapel AME Church are teaming up for their sixth annual distribution of Thanksgiving meals for the elderly, handicapped and disabled veterans on November 23.

Sharon Green explained the program. “We’ll be handing out free Thanksgiving meals to the elderly, the handicapped and disabled veterans,” Green said. “We do make some deliveries, but we prefer that the meals be picked up at our office at the intersection of Tate St. and S Three Notch St.”

Green said the meals served as a way to give back to the community. “This is something that the Black Caucus along with the youth department at the church do to give back to the community,” Green said. “It makes us feel good. We know that the holidays can be tough for the older members in our community. This is just a little something we do to show that we care.”

Last year, over 200 meals were given out. Green said she hopes even more will be given out this year. “We usually give out between 200 and 250 plates,” Green said. “We’re hoping that we’ll do at least that many. If you know of anyone who is elderly or disabled, please place an order for them. If you know 10 people who might be going without a meal this year, then order up 10 of our free dinners for them.”

Green said the holidays can be an especially difficult time for elderly members of the community. “A lot of older people and veterans don’t have a lot of family,” Green said. “People can get depressed during the holiday season. This is a real special time to reach out to people and to show that we are thinking about them. Lots of times, their families can’t come home to see them, or they might just not have any family left. They might be by themselves and might not be able to cook a Thanksgiving dinner. That’s why it is so special to give out these free dinners.”

The free dinners will consist of turkey, ham, dressing, vegetables and cake. Reserved orders can be placed by contacting either Michelle Martin at (334)-202-6569, Gwen Lampley at (334)-372-2911 or Sharon Green (334)-268-4663 or (334)-566-1903.

Green said orders could be placed for delivery but asked that all who are able pick up their meals. “We do have the ability to deliver meals to people who really need it,” Green said. “We ask that you give directions to your residence.”

Orders can be picked up on Nov. 23 at the Teamsters Local 1150 Union Hall at the intersection of Tate St. and S Three Notch St. in Troy at noon.