MANITOWOC, Wis. (WFRV) - With just days left until Thanksgiving, the final pieces are coming together for Manitowoc’s community meal. “The purpose of this event is to give our community an opportunity to break bread together," United Way Manitowoc County executive director Ashley Bender said. "No matter where you come from it’s open to all, and it’s also free. Just a great way to bring our community together on a holiday." Little Chute’s St. Johns gets new Parish Center years after expansion plans delayed The event is organized by United Way Manitowoc County and the Hunger Coalition of Manitowoc County and hosted at Hope Community Church and was first started in 2021. “Food insecurity exists in Manitowoc County. We know events like this help offset expenses for families, especially around the time of the year when expenses can spike around the holidays and due to colder temps," Bender said. “A Thanksgiving meal wasn’t something that we had heard or the group had heard was taking place in Manitowoc County at the time. So we put our heads together and thought this would be a great way to serve our community.” Last year a survey from the Hunger Coalition of Manitowoc County found that access and education surrounding food were the biggest factors contributing to food insecurity in the county and that on average food is 30% of a family’s expenses. 70 volunteers are needed to put on the meal for 250 guests, and the volunteer spots just filled up within a matter of days on Tuesday. “Our spots filled up very fast, and that’s very common for this event. It’s an opportunity for people to do something meaningful to give back to their community on a day that is all about giving thanks," Bender said. “This community loves to give back, loves to get involved and support those that might be less fortunate than themselves.” Many of the people giving back are among the less fortunate themselves. “A lot of times people that are also benefiting from resources and services want to show appreciation for that support and they come and volunteer for events like the Thanksgiving community meal," Bender said. For those still looking to get involved, food and monetary donations are still being accepted. Green Bay food pantry looks for volunteers and a change in leadership “Some of the items left that we need is gluten-free flour," Bender said. "Then we also need a few vegetables, carrots, onions and potatoes.” Plans for next year's Thanksgiving community meal are already being made. If you are interested in getting involved or donating, you can call United Way Manitowoc County at (920) 682-8888.