Wiscasset Executive Assistant Lisa Garman and other leaders in the Wiscasset area distributed Thanksgiving baskets to needy community members Nov. 23. The baskets, donated by local organizations and businesses, contained a free Thanksgiving dinner to families and individuals who would otherwise not be able to afford it.
“It went wonderfully,” Garman, who headed the effort, said.
The number of families requesting Thanksgiving baskets increased this year from 36 to 42. A total of 163 people were helped, up from 123.
“We’re thankful that we have a community that rose to the challenge to help those families in need,” Garman said.
Both individuals and organizations contributed food, time, and money to the project. Sarah’s Café and Le Garage provided ready-made meals for those who were unable to cook. The Wiscasset Primary School worked in conjunction with Morris Farm to provide fresh, organic vegetables. The Wiscasset Fire Dept. and the Wiscasset Bible Baptist Church also contributed turkey dinners.
Wiscasset High School, Big Al’s, the Woolwich-Wiscasset Baptist Church, the Wiscasset Senior Center, and several other individuals also contributed.
As the final Thanksgiving basket was handed out, preparations for distributing Christmas baskets began in earnest. Garman said she will be working with Lincoln County Family Holiday Wishes to provide Christmas meals for families and toys for children.
Family Holiday Wishes will distribute small “trees” with tags to local businesses and town offices. Each tag will have the name of a family in need. Those who pick up a tag will be responsible for sponsoring the family during Christmas by providing toys and food.
Residents from all over Lincoln County are eligible to take part in the program.
Those who wish to participate can contact Lincoln County Family Holiday Wishes at 350-7799 or Lisa Garman at 882-8200 ext. 103.
