Whether an in-house traditional turkey dinner, or a holiday basket with all the fixins’ to take home, Lakes Region residents have plenty of options for free Thanksgiving meals.

Local businesses, nonprofits and churches are doing their part to ensure people are fed and enjoy company for the holiday.

Laconia

The Congregational Church of Laconia has been serving food free of charge for Thanksgiving for 58 years, and what started as a spot to dine with friends and family has evolved into a takeout experience.

The late Hazel Duke was an elementary school teacher and member of the church congregation, and believed nobody should be without food on Thanksgiving. After she died, the church honored her by providing a free meal, and that has continued for nearly six decades.

Since the COVID pand

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