It was the creation of Shirley Barker over 9 years ago. Her simple idea was to bring the community together for a totally free meal in celebration of Thanksgiving. Everyone was always welcome and hundreds of wonderful meals were waiting. Sadly we lost Shirley this past year, but Carol Schmidt was there to step up and take over the project for her sister. As you can see the 9th year of Shirley's dream continues to come true in a big way.

   The community Thanksgiving dinner was held on Thursday, November 27, 2008 at the C.I. Chester Center in Havana from 11am to 2pm.  Many meals were delivered to those people such as working emergency personnel and any others unable to attend.  Transportation was also available for those who needed a ride. Many volunteers were on hand to serve the meals, deliver the meals, and clean-up afterwards.

   Project Thanksgiving will continue and is done solely with private donations.  If you would like to donate, make checks payable to "Project Thanksgiving" at PO Box 205, Havana, IL 62644. 

Havana, Illinois