Volunteers with the Bainbridge Artisan Resource Network spent Nov. 26 in the Culinary Arts Studio preparing 220 side dishes to bring warmth and nourishment to seniors and community members as part of the Giving Thanks Community Meal project.

The project, which began in 2020, aims to provide a festive holiday meal to those in need or who do not have family nearby. Along with dinners being delivered to homes, there was a dine-in option at St. Cecilia’s Catholic Parish.

A similar project will take place Dec. 21 at the fifth annual Holiday Cheer Community Meal.

To sign up, phone the Bainbridge Island Senior Community Center at 206-842-1616, Island Volunteer Caregivers at 206-842-4441, Helpline House at 206-842-7621 or in person at Winslow Arms, Finch Place or Virginia Vila.

The no-cost meals are supported by local restaurants and businesses such as Cafe Hitchcock, Via Rosa 11, Sweet Dahlia Baking, Blackbird Bakery, Coquette Bake Shop, BARN, BI Museum of Art Bistro and Town Country Market. Others involved include the BI Sportsman’s Club, Rotary of BI, Puget Sound Energy and Studio Walker Architects.

Students from the BI school district, Island School and the BI Kids Museum create holiday cards for each meal.

For details or to volunteer email lauravandyke5@gmail.com or jackie@ivcbainbridge.org

Nancy Travis prepares green beans for the meals.

Nancy Travis prepares green beans for the meals.