According to the American Farm Bureau Federation, the average cost of a basic, traditional Thanksgiving Dinner for a crowd of 10 is reaching $10 per plate compared with last year’s cost of $6 per person in 2025. For many veterans and elderly, Thanksgiving is not only a difficult time of year financially, but it can also be a day of depression and loneliness. This can be from loss of a loved one, diminished family structure, distance away from family, mental health struggles, or social isolation.

Realizing a gap in community service for those in need or alone, Mike Shain founder of Thanks to Yanks and Ray Fellows the CEO of Children Across America united to find a solution. They organized a free Thanksgiving dinner for community inclusion and camaraderie with the hopes of offering a more joyous holiday connection. The Garden Restaurant prepared 60 dinners with the Italian American Veterans Post providing the venue and local volunteers serving the full course Thanksgiving meal. No longer alone but with caring loving folks who simply want to give back to those in need.

Although the event was well attended, there were many who were unaware of the event or did not have the means to get there. With the ability to double the number of meals being served this year, the founders are able to provide transportation from Milford Senior Housing Centers that are managed by the Milford Housing Authority to the Italian American Veterans Post for the dinner. This year’s dinner will focus on military families who are deployed, active duty, are a veteran or are families who have recently lost their soldier along with other community members in need. As Mike Shain stated, “Anyone else that needs a place to go to enjoy a free holiday meal served with a smile and strong sense of community.”

The second annual Community Thanksgiving Dinner will be held at the Italian American Veterans Post 40 at 4 Hayward Field in Milford on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 26. Doors will open at 11:45 a.m. to merrily welcome participants with dinner being served at noon. If you would like more information, would like to volunteer, or want to make a reservation contact Ray Fellows at 508-933-8915. Seating and transportation are limited so advance registration is kindly requested. Donations are most gratefully welcomed.

Submitted by Thanks To Yanks