Holiday meals are a special time to gather with family and friends to reflect on the year and create special memories.

Churches and nonprofits are making this possible for more families in our community through free holiday meals this December.

301 North 6th St., Fort Smith

Instead of a sit-down meal this year, the Salvation Army Fort Smith will be giving out $25 gift certificates to Harps or Price Cutter. 

The gift certificates can only be used for food, and there are no requirements to receive one. 

Those in need can pick up a gift certificate at the Salvation Army during food pantry hours, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, from now until Dec. 25. 

11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Dec. 18; 616 North Cherry St., Booneville

The Greatest Gift Community Christmas Meal hosted by Our Lady of the Assumption will include turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, green beans and more. 

Anyone can sit down and enjoy the meal or pick it up to go. Delivery is available only for Booneville residents. To set up a delivery, call 479-414-7717. 

10 a.m. and 4 p.m., Dec. 25; 301 South E St., Fort Smith

The Riverview Hope Campus will host its annual Christmas lunch and dinner. The meals are open to the public and to Hope campus residents.

12 p.m., Dec. 25; 1110 South 12th St., Fort Smith

Evangel Temple will host its 34th annual free Christmas drive-thru/walk-through lunch for the homeless and less fortunate. 

The event will take place along J Street next to the Evangel Temple Gym, adjacent to the Baptist Health parking lot.

Volunteers will distribute traditional Christmas lunch to-go meals along with items such as sleeping bags, blankets and personal care products.