Two Thanksgiving community events helped the Community Resource Council (CRC) stock the fridge and fund programs. CRC, partnering with McSeagulls Restaurant, offered free Thanksgiving meals on Wednesday Nov. 22, donations appreciated. The format was repeated on Thanksgiving day at The Whale’s Tale and Seafarer’s Pub. In all, over $3,200 and vast scores of food items were raised.

“We’re happy McSeagulls can give back to the community,” said General Manager Eric Cornell. “We’re anticipating about 200 attendees and have prepared a dozen turkeys.” Chef Jacob Dushuttle prepared the birds two ways, roasted and fried – he is partial to the fried. An array of side dishes, desserts and holiday favorites were served by CRC board and staff members. Dushuttle carved turkey to order.

Leftovers from the two events provided CRC with another couple dozen prepackaged meals available in the community fridge. Food donations poured in that day, providing holiday meals for many families in need. Russell Pinkham (Pinkham’s Gourmet Market) called during the event to donate six fresh turkeys which, along with other fresh food items collected, were delivered by CRC volunteers, same day, to area families. Hodgdon Yachts and Lincoln Health also helped CRC deliver holiday foods on the peninsula and Boothbay Region Elementary School contributed generous amounts of food from its food drive. So many people and businesses came together, said CRC Director of Operations Holly Stover.

“CRC is grateful for support from McSeagulls and The Whale’s Tale and Seafarer Pub, and the community for coming out. Thanksgiving reminds us all what we are grateful for. For me, I’m most grateful for the support we give to each other on Thanksgiving and always – to make sure our neighbors could have a holiday dinner,” she said.

More opportunities to support CRC initiatives are coming up. Proceeds from the Congregational Church Christmas Fairon Saturday, Dec. 2, from 10 to 2,will be donated to CRC’s Community Fuel Fund, which helps pay to heat homes in winter. (Fuel assistance applications are available through the CRC Community Navigator (207) 350-1743 from Nov. 15 to April 15). CRC’s goal is to raise $10,000 and Boothbay Harbor Rotary Club is matching every dollar up to $5,000.