FAQ
Do I need to request a meal ahead of time?
If you will be dining in to enjoy your meal (12 - 3 PM), you don't need to let us know ahead of time - just show up! Please keep in mind that seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. Once you've finished your meal, we kindly ask that you make room for others looking to dine in. For those unable to travel, we can deliver meals in the Paw Paw and surrounding areas (Lawton, Mattawan, Gobles, and others nearby). Delivery can be requested between November 18-27 by completing the form (available beginning on Nov 18) or calling (269) 415-0767. If you reach our voicemail, don't forget to include your name, phone number, address with zip code, and number of meals.
What is the deadline to call ahead for a delivery order?
We take delivery requests Nov. 18-27 by submitting a delivery request form. The delivery form will close at 10 a.m. on Nov. 27 but you can still place a delivery request by calling before 12 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day.
If technology is not your friend, you can call the UCS office during office hours (269) 415-0767 and a staff member will fill one out for you.
UCS Phone Number: (269) 415-0767
UCS Office Hours: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
How much does it cost? Is it really free?
Our Community Thanksgiving Dinner is completely free. We are able to make this dinner possible with the generous support by local businesses/organizations, churches, and individuals! Donations are not expected but we will have a donation box available the day of the dinner.
Who is invited to the Thanksgiving meal?
Everyone is invited! We welcome families, couples, and individuals. Have a friend or neighbor who might need a meal? Please share this information with them!
What's included in my meal?
It will include items in a typical Thanksgiving meal: turkey, potatoes, stuffing, veggies, cranberry sauce, roll, and pie.
Where is the meal held?
This year's community dinner will be held at Freshwater Community Church located at 600 E Michigan Ave, Paw Paw, MI 49079. Please note: this event is not organized by Freshwater so please do not call their office to request meals. Please call United Christian Services at (269) 415-0767 or email us pawpawthanksgiving@gmail.com.
Will there be a drive-thru option?
We will not be providing a drive-thru option this year. We encourage you to join us inside for a seated meal! When you arrive, please follow the directional signs to park in the south lot and enter through Entrance A.
I'm interested in volunteering, what roles are available?
Thank you! Please see the volunteer tab for more information.
Is there an age restriction for volunteering?
We have volunteer slots available for families. For Wednesday prep, we are asking for volunteers to be at least 8 years old. Children 16 and older are welcome to sign up for their own volunteer slot.
How many meals are served each year?
The Community Thanksgiving Dinner is a collaborative effort. It takes a dedicated community of churches, volunteers, and local businesses to make the event possible. Last year, around 800 free meals were served. Organizers hope that number will continue to grow.
I have another question that wasn't answered?
Please reach out to pawpawthanksgiving@gmail.com and we will try our best to answer any questions you have!