Preparing for Rockford Rescue Mission's Thanksgiving Banquet: 61 years of community and care

ROCKFORD, WREX — The Rockford Rescue Mission will hold its 61st Annual Thanksgiving Banquet on November 26, 2026, welcoming those in need from the community to enjoy a festive meal. Ted Tomita, the Chief Development Officer, expressed excitement about the event, which aims to serve about 400 men, women, and children.

The Thanksgiving banquet began in 1964 as a small mission serving a handful of men. Over the years, it has grown significantly, now held at the mission's third location on West State, providing not just food, but also a sense of fellowship and support for those in need.

Tomita highlighted the importance of creating a welcoming environment. "We have volunteers that decorate the whole great room beautifully," he said. "It's a blessing that we can do this for an estimated 400