WEIRTON — A holiday meal, which organizers say shows the true spirit of community, is set to return for another year.

The Weirton Community Thanksgiving Dinner will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Nov. 27 at the Greater Weirton Senior Center, welcoming anyone and everyone, whether they are there for a meal or just some company.

“It really is just like a family dinner for the city of Weirton,” explained Elder Michael Smith, a member of the Weirton Ministerial Association which organizes the dinner each year.

There is no charge for the meal, which is set to include turkey, ham, dressing, yams, green beans, rolls, and a dessert.

It wouldn’t happen without the support of the community, though, and Smith said this year has been a demonstration of the Weirton community coming together.

This year, we probably have, in monetary donations, more than 40 businesses and 10 different churches contributing,” Smith said, noting members of local civic organizations and high school students usually help out the day of the dinner. “Every Rotary, Lions and Key Club will come and help.”

More than 500 meals are planned, with most gathering at the Senior Center for their meal, although Smith noted food also will be delivered to emergency responders working on Thanksgiving with the Weirton Police Department, Weirton Fire Department, and Hancock County Ambulance, as well as to emergency room employees at WVU Medicine Weirton Medical Center and Trinity Health System.

For more than 30 years, the Weirton Community Thanksgiving Dinner has been a place for people to gather and enjoy the holiday, whether they are by themselves or joined by family and friends.

Smith said it truly reflects the spirit of the community, making sure all are welcome.

“It’s a place to make new friends, but you’re going to see old friends too,” Smith said. “If you want to know what Weirton is about, come to this event.”

(Howell can be contacted at chowell@weirtondailytimes.com)