On Thanksgiving Day, volunteers came together to feed thousands a free meal. Their time and attention to those who most need the support at this time of year doesn’t go unnoticed.

On a day these volunteers could spend around their own dinner tables, they gather to make the holiday memorable for others.

“This annual event ensures that no one in our community goes without a warm meal and companionship on Thanksgiving,” said Gretchen Heavner, a member of the Butler Turkey Day Feast committee.

Butler Global Church, All Saints Parish Churches, Community Partnership and others come together to make the event happen.

They offered pickup or sit-down options. Both saw significant turnout.

The Thanksgiving meal offers a snapshot of the struggles our community — likely a number of your friends and neighbors — are experiencing.

There’s a growing need in Butler County, and it shows on days like Thursday.

We thank the volunteers who showed up on Thursday and the volunteers who work to offer regular free community meals within the city.

We also encourage those who can help to do so. Whether its helping bring the free meal programs to fruition daily, donating to an area food bank or looking out for your neighbors who you know are struggling, there’s an obvious need.

And no one should go hungry.

— TL