To help spread out the giving season and holiday cheer, the Newton Elks Lodge #1270 is having a free Thanksmas dinner from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday. The new event takes the place of its traditional free Thanksgiving dinner held by the Elks Lodge at 111 E. Second St. S.
“It seemed there were about four organizations ‘competing’ to help provide a meal for those in need last Thanksgiving, so we opted to provide a hot home cooked meal in between the traditional holidays,” Bill Cobbs, of the Elks said. “Thanks to other Newton organizations ... taking care of the meals on Thanksgiving day, we were able to move this even a few days later on the calendar to help extend the joy for those in need beyond the one day.”
A traditional holiday meal of ham, mashed potatoes and gravy, homemade stuffing, green beans and a dessert will be served for those in need. It is fully funded through the local Elks and a grant from the Elks National Foundation, the charitable arm of the Elks Lodge. In years past, the organization has served more than 200 meals and is hoping for a similar turn out at the new Thanksmas dinner.Along with the meal, a clothing giveaway will also be available during the event. Items consisting of socks, gloves, coats, boots, toiletries and other winter items will be available to those in need in a range of sizes and styles.
Currently, the lodge is only accepting donations for coats and boots in new or gently used condition. It is also hoping to get a good supply of children’s sizes.
“There is no doubt the citizens in need in Newton aren’t just in need on Thanksgiving and Christmas days. We hope this meal will make that in between time a little more enjoyable as well,” Cobbs said.
Contact Jamee A. Pierson at 641-792-3121 ext. 6534 or jpierson@newtondailynews.com