FARMINGTON — Reservations for take out or delivery of the annual free Thanksgiving Day dinner in the food court at Mt. Blue High School are needed by Nov. 19.

The dinner, provided by the Scottish Rites Masons of Augusta Valley, has been held at Mt. Blue for 17 years. Gerry Gilman and his wife Nancy, worthy matron of  Messalunskit Chapter #170 Order of the Eastern Star in New Sharon, are again organizing the meal which last year served 594 meals. They have been doing so for eight or nine years.

People may eat in or take out. Meals can also be delivered in the greater Franklin County area.

Reservations are required by Nov. 19 for take out or delivery. Reservations for meals served in the food court are not required but help with food planning. There are no criteria for receiving a meal.

“We served about 125 at the food court last year. We deliver to all towns in Franklin County. It spills over into Anson Valley and Androscoggin County. It’s for a good cause. There’s no platform. We have 17 drivers who deliver meals,” Gerry Gilman said.

He expects to serve more than 600 meals this year. 150 were served the first year.

“There is definitely a need for it. Only the drivers and we know who gets a meal,” Gilman said.

Last year 29 turkeys, 250 pounds of potatoes, 280 pounds of squash and 90 pounds of peas were prepared. One hundred pies of all kinds were also shared. The meal includes gravy, cranberry sauce and rolls. There are beverages for those that eat in.

“Nothing is wasted. The peelings go to a pig farmer and the turkey carcasses are used to make stock. Leftovers are donated,” he said.

Gilman said 100 posters are put up in area stores and senior homes.

“Nancy and I start pulling this together the first of September. We go to businesses, talk to people. We have lots of volunteers from all walks of life, from politicians to farm workers, everyday people.

“Mt. Blue’s National Honor Society works with us. We always have a job for them. We’re people helping people. We’re already taking phone calls,” Gilman said.

To reserve a meal, volunteer or obtain more information call Gerry, 649-5449, or Nancy, 491-4287.

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