Last Thanksgiving, perhaps 2,000 people ate their holiday meal courtesy of two separate efforts that have become local traditions.

One is The Salvation Army, 126 N. Seventh St. It is estimated to have served nearly 500 of that 2,000 in 2015.

The other, a more local annual dinner, is hosted at the Fort Dodge Ford Toyota showroom, 2723 Fifth Ave. S. That dinner, which relies on the expertise of the Iowa Central Community College culinary arts program and multiple other volunteers, took care of the other 1,500.

About half of those were served in-house on Thanksgiving Day 2015. The other half were delivered within the city limits of Fort Dodge.

Well, this year they’re back.

Thanksgiving Dinner at Fort Dodge Ford Toyota

“Whether you’re alone or in need on Thanksgiving, join us for a complimentary dinner in our showroom from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.,” Abigail Johnson said.

The Johnson family has hosted the big meal at their business for the last eight years.

“On Thanksgiving Day, our showroom transforms into a festive, inviting setting. We have fully decorated tables with linen tablecloths where people can come enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving dinner prepared and served by the Iowa Central Community College Culinary Arts Program students. Desserts include a variety of pies and other treats.”

She added, “If people are unable to come to the dealership or prefer a meal delivered to their home, they can call 576-7505 any time from now until the day of Thanksgiving.”

Such a big undertaking requires many volunteers.

“We welcome volunteers of all ages to help,” she said. “We need volunteers to help set up, tear down, pour drinks, serve dessert, assist people to tables, do dishes, deliver meals. They can come to the dealership to help set up as early as 9 a.m. They can help for as little or long as they would like.”

She said the event is generally cleaned up and done by 2:30 p.m.

“It has grown each year since its beginning in 2008,” Johnson said. “The first year, the meal was attended by about 300.”

Having grown to serving 1,500 meals, the Johnson family, who are owners of the car dealership where the event takes place, want people to know that this Fort Dodge meal is not undertaken without a lot of help. It is done in partnership with the following:

– Dinner prepared and served by Chef Michael Hirst and the ICCC Culinary

Students.

– Pies and apple cider from Community Orchard.

– Pies from Friendship Haven and Hy-Vee.

– Candy and Cookies donated by Candies & More,

– Great Western Dining Services.

– Fresh produce donated by Lynch Farms.

– Table linens by Aramark.

– Tables and chairs by Noon Sertoma.

– Table decorations by Becker Florists.

– Music by Mendenhalls.

Thanksgiving Dinner at the Salvation Army

The Salvation Army will also hold a free Thanksgiving dinner on Thursday.

The dinner will be served from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Salvation Army, 126 N. Seventh St.

”Last year, we served over 400 meals to our community,” said Capt. Rick Hamelund.

The Salvation Army is looking for volunteers to help serve the meal. Anyone interested in volunteering can call 576-1281.

”It’s a lot of work and fun and you can be a blessing to others,” said Capt. Melody Hamelund.

Donations of turkeys, hams, salads, potatoes and pies  are also being sought.