A couple of years ago, the no-charge, everyone’s-welcome community Thanksgiving meal at the La Plata County Fairgrounds came to an end. It had required a superhuman effort: volunteers by the dozens, turkeys purchased or contributed, then prepared in restaurants and homes – plus all the setup and cleanup that made the day possible.
More than 1,000 diners enjoyed the substantial meal and the socializing on that festive day, but the voluntary effort eventually ran out of juice. Understandably, it was too much.
Filling the gap for those seeking a Thanksgiving meal has been Manna – the Durango Soup Kitchen, on the city’s west side at 1100 Avenida del Sol. This year on Thursday, Nov. 27, Manna is offering drive-up only meal pickup, and anyone in the community may participate. Pick up meals for yourself, friends, family or neighbors. Although the shared socializing of the fairgrounds is gone, the food remains plentiful and reliable: turkey and mashed potatoes, stuffing, salad, rolls and pie – all prepared with the consistency Manna is known for.
Pickup runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., and meal deliveries occur between 10 a.m. and noon. No reservation is needed for pickup. For home delivery, Manna partners with dedicated volunteer drivers from The Vineyard Church. Sign up for a delivered meal or volunteer to help at https://tinyurl.com/3mr4ey9h. More information is at mannasoupkitchen.org.
Manna expects to serve 1,000 meals this year. Thanks to the folks at Manna – staff, volunteers, donors – for continuing this community tradition.
A second choice is on Wednesday, Nov. 26, at VFW Post 4031, 1550 Main Ave., at the bridge on Durango’s Main Avenue. Agape Durango, which describes itself as fostering a spiritual community, is hosting a potluck-style Thanksgiving gathering, serving turkey and “fixings,” while guests bring side dishes, desserts and drinks (alcohol can be purchased though not brought in). The gathering – which will include music, dancing and desserts – runs from 5 to 8:30 p.m.
Those who plan to attend are asked to RSVP with the number in their party at agapedurango@gmail.com.
Both Manna and Agape are carrying forward the spirit of generosity that defined the fairgrounds meal, each in their own way – one through hot meals ready to take home, the other through a shared table and an evening of celebration.
With either gathering, enjoy the meal and make the most of the day.
