The United Way of the Eastern Upper Peninsula (UWEUP) is celebrating an extraordinary outpouring of generosity following its first-ever Thanksgiving Day Community Dinner, held in partnership with Farendy Farms at Avery Square in Sault Ste. Marie. What began as a simple effort to ensure local residents had a warm holiday meal became a powerful example of what community can accomplish when it comes together.
This inaugural event served more than 275 meals, supported by 20 volunteers, and completed 75 home deliveries, including meals for the Sault Tribe Elder’s Meal Program. By 3 p.m., the dinner had completely run out of food—a testament to the scale of community need and the overwhelming turnout.
Farendy Farms graciously prepared the full Thanksgiving menu, and the event was made possible through the collective generosity of donors throughout the EUP. United Way also acknowledges the remarkable contribution of a local couple who requested to remain anonymous, whose financial gift covered the entire cost of the dinner after hearing about the need. This extraordinary gesture ensured the meal could be offered freely to anyone wishing to attend.
Community members shared heartfelt feedback throughout the day:
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“Thank you for the delicious meal. The people I was with donated money because it was definitely worth it.”
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“Amazing meal. Thank you so much for providing meals to elderly disabled people—made my heart so happy to pick up to-go meals.”
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“Was a great time. Would come and volunteer again.”
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“Great turnout.”
United Way of the EUP also distributed 35 Thanksgiving Food Baskets earlier in the week, supported by roughly $3,000 in donated food and numerous local drives from individuals, businesses, and volunteer groups. Every contribution—large or small—helped ensure families across the region could celebrate the holiday with dignity and comfort.
“This event showed the absolute best of our community,” said Kaylynn Cairns, Executive Director of UWEUP. “Volunteers, donors, partner organizations, and neighbors all came together to lift one another up. We are deeply grateful for the support and proud to continue strengthening the network that helps families year-round.”
Looking Ahead: Giving Tuesday – December 2
Following this successful Thanksgiving effort, United Way is gearing up for Giving Tuesday on December 2, a Global Day of Generosity that helps sustain local programs throughout the year. Contributions to UWEUP stay entirely within the Eastern Upper Peninsula, supporting vital community resources such as 211, mini grants for local organizations, food security initiatives, and emergency assistance programs.
Residents can participate in Giving Tuesday by:
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Giving: Make a financial contribution to support year-round local services.
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Advocating: Share United Way’s mission, promote available resources like 211, and help elevate community needs.
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Volunteering: Join future events, workplace activities, or community projects—your time is essential and deeply valued.
How to Get Involved
Community members interested in volunteering, workplace giving, or supporting upcoming events—including United Way’s 70th anniversary activities, the February “Give from the Heart” auction, or the spring mini-grant cycle—can contact the United Way of the EUP at:
United Way of the Eastern Upper Peninsula
418 Ashmun Street, Sault Ste. Marie, MI
Phone: 906-632-3700
Website: www.unitedwayeup.org
United Way extends sincere appreciation to every donor, volunteer, partner organization, and community member who contributed to making this first Thanksgiving Day Dinner a meaningful success. The generosity shown this holiday season will continue to strengthen families and build a more connected, resilient Eastern Upper Peninsula.
