13th annual holiday meals for Wayne Westland veterans

Veterans will receive a free holiday turkey with all the fixings.

By Sarah Shurge – For the 13th year, the Wayne-Ford Civic League and elected officials are coming together for the Annual Holiday Meals for Wayne-Westland veterans and active duty families.
The program is for Wayne-Westland veterans, surviving spouses, and families of active duty service members. All you have to do is register and then you will receive a free meal.
“This is for our local heroes, so they don’t forget we’re thankful for their service,” said Jim Hart, Wayne Ford Civic League vice president.
Once registered, recipients will receive a (12-16 pound) turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy, sweet potatoes, corn, green beans, cranberry sauce, and heat and serve rolls for a family of 6-8 people.
The meal is completely free, all you have to do is register using one of the following three methods:
#1: You can register online with the online form at wayne-ford.com
#2: Fill out registration form and return it to the Wayne Ford Civic League (1645 N. Wayne Rd. Westland)
#3: Call the Wayne or Westland Mayors’ office for assistance.
You must be a resident of the City of Wayne or Westland to register and receive a meal package. To register, you’ll need your name, address, phone number, and branch service.
Applications must be submitted no later than 5 p.m. on Wednesday, November 18th, to receive a complete holiday meal for free.
Veterans, active-duty service members, and/or their families can pick up their meal on Saturday, November 21st, between 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Wayne Ford Civic League.
For families that need assistance, special arrangements, or delivery options, contact the Wayne Ford Civic League at (734)728-5010.
When the program originally started 13 years ago, they were only passing out 30 frozen turkeys from the trunk of their car.
However, it quickly grew to supply an entire meal so veterans can invite their family or friends over to eat with them.
Over 400 meal packages were handed out in 2025.
The fundraising goal for the Thanksgiving event this year is $30K. The Wayne Ford Civic League is currently halfway to their goal and could use support. If you are interested in donating to the cause, please visit: https://wayne-ford.com/donations.
If you’d rather donate by check, donation checks can be made payable to: Wayne Ford Civic League located at 1661 N. Wayne Rd. Westland, MI 48185. Please note in the memo section: Veteran Meal Program. (The Wayne Ford Civic League is a 501©4 corporation. Tax ID 38-6085890).
Hart has been involved with the program for about 11 years. Hart is a veteran himself. He joined the U.S. Army in 1995.
“Seeing my brothers and sisters doing their part to provide veterans with a good holiday meal, regardless of their situation, is my favorite part,” said Hart. “For some, this is their only option.”
To volunteer for packaging and distribution participation or for more information, call Jim Hart at (734)709-5307, call Vic Barra at (734)728-5010, or email President@wayne-ford.com.
If you are a veteran, surviving spouse, or family of an active duty service member, be sure to register for a free meal, and thank you for your service!