Community efforts keep free annual Dubuque Thanksgiving dinner going [Video]

DUBUQUE, Iowa (KCRG) – A team of Dubuque organizations are working together to continue the annual Tri-State Thanksgiving meal.

Started by the Ginter family in the 1960s, thousands of people find companionship and a free, hot meal through the tradition annually. However, the Ginters decided to retire from the effort this year.

“The free community Thanksgiving dinner really has become a symbol of Dubuque as a generous and giving community, so we certainly don’t want to let that go,” said Jason Neises, Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque’s community development officer.

At least 17 community organizations are gathering resources to “prepare, serve, and deliver food and fellowship across the area.”

From 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thanksgiving day, people can get a free, hot meal at the following locations:

• Crescent Community Health Center, 1620 Elm St., Dubuque
• Dubuque Rescue Mission, 398 Main St., Dubuque
• Hills & Dales Lifetime Center, 3505 Stoneman Rd., Dubuque
• Lu Lu’s Seldom Scene, 23 Sinsinawa Ave, East Dubuque, IL
• Salvation Army, 1099 Iowa St., Dubuque
• St. John’s Episcopal Church Parish …