MOLINE, Ill. — Thanksgiving is this Thursday, and many people are working to get ready to host their annual feasts. That includes the Quad Cities' very own Bob Vogelbaugh, better known as Mr. Thanksgiving.
For more than 50 years, Vogelbaugh has spent the holiday giving out Thanksgiving meals to thousands of Quad Citizens. However, in late October, Vogelbaugh announced that the dinners would be coming to an end due to issues with securing a venue.
That's when the community stepped in. This year's dinner will take place at Mercado on Fifth, 423 12th St. in Moline, from 4 to 7 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 28. Organizers expect to give away 2,000 meals this year.
“I am thrilled to see our community come together to support one another," Vogelbaugh said in a press release announcing the new venue. "It’s heartwarming to know that we will continue providing meals and companionship to those in need. This holiday should be a time of joy, and with the help of our friends and volunteers, we can make that happen!”
R.I.A. Credit Union is sponsoring the dinner and helping cover the costs of the food. Officials with the credit union said all seven branches in the Quad Cities are open for monetary donations from the community. Those wishing to donate can also do so online.