Frontline Mission switches to drive thru only model for Thanksgiving dinner event due to COVID-19

WASILLA — Frontline Mission recently announced the cancellation of the dine-in experience for their annual Thanksgiving dinner event, switching to a drive-thru only model to continue their mission to provide meals to Valley residents in need during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It was our plan to do both, but we were asked to change… We weren't left with an option. It was drive thru only or nothing else," Frontline Mission program coordinator Matthew Sheets said. “Now more than ever, we want to be able to help.”

According to Sheets, Frontline was notified of the safety protocol by the city of Wasilla late last week. He said they’ve been receiving consultation from city officials and medical professionals on ways to proceed with the event.

“It's a tough sort of thing... We weren't expecting it," Sheets said. “We value the safety of everybody. We're completely compliant... We were making an informed decision.”

Sheets said the event is still taking place at the Menard Sports Center and running the same time, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The dinner will feature all the classic Thanksgiving fixings including mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, rolls, and three kinds of pies with many more kinds of desserts.

Frontline volunteers served about 1,700 meals at the Menard Center last year. Sheets said they’re expecting over 2,000 this year due to the overall increase in demand.

He said there will be volunteers outside directing traffic and handing out meals. He said they’re still expecting to serve the same amount of meals, despite the switch to drive thru only.

“That hasn't changed," Sheets said.. "Ultimately a lot of people still need food... A lot of people just need a little bit of help… Frontline mission cares about the holistic well being of the community. We're happy to do that. We're trying to provide a warm atmosphere."

Sheets said they’re still accepting volunteers to help out with the event, and people can call or go online to find out more about signing up or making a donation.

“All the more, help is needed,” Sheets said. “Definitely a good time to give back to the community," Sheets said.

For more information, call 907-357-8600 or visit frontlinemission.org.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com