Crossroads inviting everyone over for Thanksgiving

Not many hosts can say they welcome the whole town to Thanksgiving dinner.

Crossroads Mission puts out that invitation every year and expects 3,500 around its proverbial table this week.

"We just want to make sure everyone has someone to eat with on Thanksgiving," said Barbara Rochester, public relations coordinator for Crossroads Mission. "We also want to make sure that every family has a warm meal on the table."

Crossroads kicks off its Three Days of Thanksgiving this week, with free community meals planned for Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

Meals will be served from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. each day at the main mission complex, 944 S. Arizona Ave. A traditional Mexican meal will be served Tuesday, followed by a roast beef dinner Wednesday and a traditional turkey dinner on Thanksgiving Day.

"It's just going to be fun day for the whole family," Rochester said, adding that Crossroads is preparing for a big crowd this year. "There are so many people calling to see if we're going to be serving. The numbers are definitely going to be higher."

In addition to food, the meals will offer live entertainment and activities for kids. Blankets and clothing will be distributed for people in need, and social service agencies will also be on hand to give information and support. Veterans Affairs plans to distribute sleeping bags, boots and backpacks to veterans in need.

"There will also be free haircuts," Rochester said. "People look so nice and it helps with their self-esteem."

Meals will be delivered for people who are elderly, handicapped or mentally ill. To arrange for a meal, call Francis at 726-0491. About 300 meals are delivered each year during Three Days of Thanksgiving.

Before the meals can be served, Crossroads still needs a few more donations and volunteers.

"People don't have to donate a lot. They can donate a dozen eggs or a gallon of milk. Every bit helps," Rochester said. "If any big stores have clothes to donate, we would appreciate clothes in any size."

People interested in volunteering may call 726-0491.

"We always need more volunteers," Rochester said. "We can always use more help."

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Darin Fenger can be reached at dfenger@yumasun.com or 539-6860.

IF YOU GO
WHAT: Three Days of Thanksgiving
WHEN: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
COST: Free
WHERE: Crossroads Mission, 944 S. Arizona Ave.
INFO: 726-0491

CROSSROADS WISH LIST

The mission needs donations of the following items for Three Days of Thanksgiving:
Food:
• Desserts
• Ground beef
• Stew meat
• Potatoes
• Carrots
• Onions
• Eggs
• Milk (regular and chocolate)

Other:
• Clothes
• Blankets
• Gas vouchers