The Eastridge Church believes everyone should be able to enjoy a Thanksgiving meal. From 9 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. on Nov. 23, volunteers will give out free turkeys, coats, haircuts and Bibles during the annual Turkey and Grocery Giveaway event.

The event will take place simultaneously at the church’s two locations in Issaquah and West Seattle, giving out more than 1,500 turkey and grocery bundles on a first come, first served basis until they run out. No proof of need is required and all are welcome.

Lisette Murrell, Eastridge Cares director, said there will be about 1,000 turkeys given out at the Issaquah campus. That’s 1,000 families, so well over 1,000 people will come in their doors, she estimated.

People can pick from the many coats that have been donated, get their hair cut by local stylists who have volunteered their services, and even register their children for the church’s Christmas Toy House.

“It’s a really fun event and with all of our volunteers it’s just overall a really great day,” said Murrell.

She said the church covers the cost of all the turkeys and groceries and the coats are all donated through congregation members as well as local businesses, neighborhoods and community groups.

This giveaway event has been happening for some 15 years, she said, and it’s grown over time. Murrell said people from all over the region attend, even coming from Renton and Tacoma.

“The vision of the church is being able to bless the community,” Murrell said. “There’s a big need out there of families struggling. For whatever reason they may find themselves in a situation. We want to show that we care.”

She said she is thankful to live in an area where there are so many caring people.

The Issaquah branch of Eastridge Church is located at 24205 S.E. Issaquah Fall City Road. More information can be found online at www.eastridgetoday.com.