BUCKHANNON — As the holiday season approaches, organizations across Upshur County are stepping up to ensure no one goes without a Thanksgiving meal.

From free dinners to generous food giveaways, here’s a look at how local groups are giving back to the community this Thanksgiving.

Parish House Expands Holiday Outreach

The Upshur Parish House has already distributed Thanksgiving baskets to neighbors in need, but demand is growing.

“We can’t accept any new applications for Thanksgiving baskets this year because we had to place the turkey order in October,” Isaac Casto, executive director of the Parish House, told My Buckhannon. “Neighbors can still access our regular monthly food packages, which we bulk up this time of year with items like pumpkin, stuffing and potatoes.”

This year, the Parish House extended its holiday basket program to its southern branch in Rock Cave, located in the former Rock Cave United Methodist Church.

“It’s the first time we’ve been able to make this offering available out there,” Casto noted. “We see Rock Cave as its own unique community, and we’re planning to bring more of our services to that area while addressing its specific needs.”

Casto also noted that the Parish House will host a Christmas Day Dinner at Chapel Hill United Methodist Church, with more information to come soon.

Feed My Sheep Thanksgiving Food Giveaway

Feed My Sheep Food Outreach will host a Thanksgiving food giveaway on Saturday, November 23, to ensure families have everything they need for a holiday meal. Operations will begin at 9 a.m.

Located at the corner of Brushy Fork and Stoney Run Road, Feed My Sheep is committed to serving the community.

Chapel Hill UMC Thanksgiving Meal

Chapel Hill United Methodist Church will host a special Thanksgiving takeout meal on Thanksgiving Day, November 28, at 5 p.m.

“Everything will function like our Wednesday Night Dinner program, but it will be on Thanksgiving Day,” organizers shared on social media.

Guests are encouraged to arrive at 4 p.m. to enjoy coffee and conversation before picking up meals. Each person may take up to five meals, and deliveries will be made to homebound individuals.

A Season of Gratitude and Giving

These Upshur County organizations are committed to ensuring everyone has access to a warm meal and community support during the holiday season, whether through food baskets, hot meals, company or giveaways.

For more information about volunteering or donating to these initiatives, contact the Upshur County Parish House or Feed My Sheep Food Outreach.