Hundreds expected at Salvation Army Thanksgiving events across Big Island

The Salvation Army is prepping to host three community Thanksgiving events on Hawai’i Island on Thursday, offering free holiday meals and aloha to residents in need.

The first gathering will take place on Nov. 27 at Aunty Sally’s Lū‘au Hale, 799 Piilani St. in Hilo, where guests will be welcomed for a sit-down community Thanksgiving meal from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

This year’s event will be in memory of Ed Olson, a lifelong philanthropist and one of Hawaiʻi’s largest advocates for conservation and agriculture. For those that wish to volunteer can contact the Corps at 808-935-1277.  

Divisional Commander Major Troy Trimmer said: “Thanksgiving is a time of gratitude, reflection, joy and hope.

“We want to remind people that the Salvation Army, motivated by the love of God, is here for you — not only in fellowship during the holidays, but year-round through our vital services and programs.”

This year, there will be a limit of 400 meals available at the Hilo Temple Corps, and 200 meals for delivery.

Volunteers plan to serve traditional holiday dishes, and local musicians are scheduled to provide live entertainment throughout the meal. The organization is still seeking volunteers to serve meals, cut and serve pies, and assist with cleanup between 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

In Waimea, the Honokaʻa Corps will deliver Thanksgiving meals to kūpuna from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Meals will be prepared by local resorts, packaged and then delivered by Salvation Army volunteers.

Volunteer opportunities are still available for packaging, delivering and participating in community outreach. This year, there will be a limit of 700 meals available at this location.

“These regional events provide opportunities for people to be in community with full stomachs and hearts, and without financial stress or fear of judgment,” Trimmer said.

The organization’s website states the Thanksgiving events reflect its mission to meet human needs without discrimination and to share hope with those it serves. Families attending are urged to arrive early.

In Kona, the Salvation Army Kona Corps will hold a grab-and-go and senior meal delivery at Jackie Rey’s Restaurant.

Families and individuals can pick up hot, individually packaged holiday meals prepared by volunteers. They will also deliver meals to community members and Kupuna who have challenges leaving their homes.

This year, there will be a limit of 300 meals available at this location and 500 meals for delivery.

Volunteer opportunities are still available for residents interested in meal delivery and service coordination.

Organizers said the event is intended not only to offer food but also a sense of connection for those who may otherwise spend the holiday alone.

Residents who are interested in volunteering or joining the clean-up crew at any of the events, click here.

Editor’s note: An earlier version of the story incorrectly stated where the Salvation Army Thanksgiving dinner on Nov. 27 would be taking place. It has since been corrected to Aunt Sally Kaleohano’s Lū‘au Hale.