11/18/2025
🍁 Thanksgiving for Those Without — 4th Annual Free Community Dinner 🍂
Hosted by The Qualified Group & DVE Ministries
Traverse City, MI
The Qualified Group and DVE Ministries, both based in Traverse City, Michigan, are honored to host the 4th Annual Thanksgiving for Those Without — a free, community Thanksgiving celebration for anyone who may be without a meal, support, or a place to gather on the holiday.
This event is made possible through local volunteers, community donations, and small businesses who come together each year to ensure no one goes hungry on Thanksgiving.
🧡 Why We Are Fundraising
This year, the need is especially great. Due to the government shutdown affecting November SNAP benefits, many families in our area are receiving reduced food assistance right before Thanksgiving. We anticipate a larger turnout than ever and are preparing to feed every individual and family who joins us — including providing meals to take home.
Our mission is simple:
Everyone who arrives will be welcomed, fed, and supported.
📍 Event Location & Details
Thanksgiving Day — Dinner begins at 2 PM
📍 404 Division St, Traverse City, MI 49686
(Empty lot across from Tilly’s and behind The Elks Lodge)
The community event includes:
- Hot, homemade Thanksgiving dinner
- Heated tents and gathering spaces
- Yard & board games
- The Detroit Lions game shown on-site
- Food available for families to take home afterward
💛 How the Funds Will Be Used
We are raising $8,000 to cover event costs. Any remaining amount not covered through community donations will be funded by The Qualified Group to guarantee that the event takes place at full scale.
Food & Meal Preparation — approx. $4,000
- Turkeys, hams, stuffing, potatoes, vegetables, desserts
- Ingredients for homemade dishes
- Drinks: water, juices, coffee, coffee creamer, hot cocoa
- Chafing pans & sternos to keep food warm
- Serving utensils
- Napkins, plastic cutlery, paper plates, Styrofoam cups
- Take-home containers for families
- Event Setup & Comfort — approx. $2,500
- Tent rentals
- Propane & heaters
- Tables, chairs, and table covers
- Lighting, cords, and setup supplies
- Trash disposal & cleanup materials
Sanitation & Facilities — approx. $1,000
- Porta potties (with built-in handwashing stations)
Every donation will go toward these exact costs. Updates will be posted as preparations continue and purchases are made.
🤝 Transparency & Accountability
The Qualified Group and DVE Ministries are the organizers and hosts of this event. We work directly with volunteers, community partners, and families. All funds will be used solely for food, supplies, and event logistics as outlined. We fully follow GoFundMe’s guidelines and accountability requirements.
🙏 How You Can Help
Your donation — no matter the size — helps us serve more families and ensure that no one in Traverse City goes hungry this Thanksgiving! Thank you for supporting this tradition of compassion, community, and togetherness.
Thanksgiving for Those Without — 4th Annual Free Community Dinner … Qualified Group needs your support for Thanksgiving for Those Without Traverse City
