Madison County Hosts First-Ever Thanksgiving Dinner for Residents Experiencing Homelessness and Those Less Fortunate

EDWARDSVILLE — With doors wide open to neighbors experiencing homelessness and those less fortunate, Madison County shared a Thanksgiving meal rooted in compassion and community.

Madison County employees served a free Thanksgiving dinner on Wednesday, Nov. 26, 2025, in the cafeteria of the Madison County Administration Building.

The event was funded entirely through donations from elected officials, local business owners, and county employees, with no taxpayer dollars used.

“This event represented the best of who we are as a community,” Madison County Board Chairman Chris Slusser said. “The generosity of our employees, elected officials and local business partners ensured this meal was made possible through heartfelt giving — simply people helping people.”

Community Development Administrator Stacey Pace said this marked the first time Madison County hosted a Thanksgiving meal for residents experiencing homelessness and those less fortunate.

“Thanksgiving can be an especially difficult time for individuals and families facing housing insecurity,” Pace said. “This dinner provided more than food — it offered dignity, conversation and a reminder that our community cares and sees them. We hope this becomes a tradition moving forward.”

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Guests received a traditional Thanksgiving meal and were also provided information about housing resources, food assistance and support programs available through Madison County and partner organizations.

Staff from multiple departments volunteered their time to prepare, serve and host the meal. County board members and elected leaders also joined in serving.

“It was incredibly moving to see people from every corner of this community come together for such a simple but powerful act of kindness,” County Board Member Chrissy Wiley said. “This is what public service is about — showing up, listening, and making sure people know they are not forgotten.”

County Board members Jason Palmero and Frank Dickerson each brought their children to volunteer. Other board members who volunteered included Linda Wolfe, Paul Nicolussi, Fred Schulte, and Don McMaster.

Countywide elected officials who stopped by included Coroner Nick Novacich, County Clerk Linda Andreas, and Treasurer Mike Babcock. State Representatives Amy Elik and Charlie Meier also volunteered, along with State Senator Erica Harriss.

Pace said the afternoon reinforced the importance of connection as much as the meal itself.

“This wasn’t just about serving food — it was about serving people,” she said. “We were able to offer warmth, conversation, and resources in a space where everyone was welcome. That’s something we’re proud of, and it’s something we want to continue building on in the future.”

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