Mary Smith, project chairperson of the Minister's Union Community Thanksgiving Dinner, said she is still in need of volunteers and donations for the event Thursday.

From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday at Sharp Learning Center citizens can enjoy a free feast.

"We have about 200 pounds of potatoes to peel Wednesday morning and about 50 turkeys to cook Wednesday night and Thursday morning," Smith said.

The menu will also include cornbread dressing, cranberries, string beans, corn, potato salad, rolls, coffee and desserts.

Left over food will be donated to the Community Food Pantry on Brown Street.

Smith explained the dinner was first organized 20 years ago.

"A lot of people said they were going to Atlanta to serve in soup kitchens," Smith said, "and someone said, why should we go to Atlanta when people are hungry here?"

The dinner has served, at its largest, 1,500 people.

"With the economy like it is today, we're looking to see that many and more this year," Smith said.

She added that a tight economy also means the event has received less monetary and food contributions.

Even with volunteers from various churches and high school clubs, Smith said potato peelers, cooks, servers and people to transport food to elderly residents or transport seniors to the meal are still needed.

To volunteer or donate to the Community Thanksgiving Dinner, call (770) 784-0037.