By RYLEE BURD
Tiger Media Network
Thanksgiving week in Hays will once again be filled with generosity, warm meals, and community connection as several local organizations prepare to offer free food to residents. Multiple events will take place from Tuesday through Thanksgiving Day. Each gathering is designed to welcome anyone who would like a holiday meal, a place to celebrate, or simply a friendly environment during the holiday season.
The week begins at the Hays Public Library located at 1205 Main St. From 5:30-7 p.m. on Tuesday, the library will host a free community Thanksgiving dinner. The event is open to individuals and families of all ages. No registration or library card is required. Library staff and volunteers will serve a full meal and provide a relaxed place for people to enjoy an evening together before the holiday rush.
Thanksgiving Day brings several more opportunities for a free meal. The Ellis County Ministerial Alliance Community Thanksgiving Feast will once again take place at the Kansas National Guard Armory at 200 Main St. Volunteers will serve a traditional holiday dinner from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. This long-running community event is open to everyone on a first-come, first-served basis. Every household that attends will receive a free grocery sack with no income requirements.
Although meal reservations are not accepted, residents who are elderly, disabled, or homebound may request meal delivery. Those who need delivery can contact First Call for Help at (785) 623 2800 prior to the event.
A second Thanksgiving Day option will be available at Cattleman’s Café, 1230 E. 27th St. The restaurant will provide a free dine-in turkey dinner from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The meal includes turkey and a selection of classic holiday side dishes. Takeout meals cost $5 and slices of pumpkin pie are available for $1. Staff encourage early arrivals due to anticipated turnout.
Later that evening, Horseshoe Bar and Grill, 1000 E. 8th St., will host a community Thanksgiving potluck from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. The restaurant will supply turkey and ham. Guests are welcome to bring a side dish or dessert, although doing so is not required. The event is intended to create a welcoming and comfortable environment for anyone seeking company or a second holiday meal. Food will be served as long as supplies last.
Additional support is available throughout the week through the Feeding Hays program at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, located at 2900 Canal Blvd. The church offers free meals every Thursday at 6:30 p.m., including during Thanksgiving week. Meals are provided through a drive-through setup, and households may pick up to five meals unless they arrange a larger order in advance by text.
Local food pantries such as First Call for Help, Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas, and the St. Joseph Food Bank also continue to provide groceries for residents who may need additional assistance during the holiday season.
The variety of free meals and community-oriented events throughout Thanksgiving week reflects the strong tradition of kindness and inclusivity that defines the Hays area. Organizers of each event emphasize that every resident is welcome with no questions asked and no expectations attached.