DES MOINES, Iowa —

The Parks Community Thanksgiving Dinner in Des Moines has seen a record number of reservations for free delivered holiday meals, highlighting the growing financial need among Iowans.

Paul Tullis, founder of the dinner, expressed surprise at the level of need, saying, "I didn't realize so many people needed help."

The tradition, which began 41 years ago with 50 meals served in a church basement, expanded to over 3,000 meals last year, underscoring its significant impact on the community.

Tullis noted the potential challenges this year due to the federal government shutdown, stating, "And now, with the federal government shutdown, I think it's going to be a lot worse. And so, I think we might run out of food this year, but, you know, if, if we don't, we'll — if we have

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