This Thanksgiving, a free meals program to feed people in need will take place from noon to 2 p.m. at St. Theresa’s Church in South Maui, where more than 1.6 million daily meals have been prepared since 1991.

“We served more than 280 people last Thanksgiving,” said Shawn Wallen, director of the Hale Kau Kau program. “For some, that’s the only meal they’ll have that day.There are also people who can’t afford to have a Thanksgiving dinner.”

People receiving meals include families with children, the elderly and veterans. Those receiving the meals don’t have to sign up to receive them. The Kau Kau program has a “no questions asked” policy.

Meals are served from 5 to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.

On Thanksgiving and Christmas, Hale Kau Kau serves lunch from noon to 2 p.m.

The program is supported by a number of groups, including Maui County, the Maui Food Bank, Feed My Sheep and Whole Foods, as well as more than 100 volunteers.

Between five to eight volunteers help each day in the kitchen.

“We have a lot of awesome volunteers,” Wallen said.

Wallen said the group hasn’t missed a day since beginning the service on Aug.11, 1991.

In addition to the meals, Hale Kau Kau has helped to serve as a place where people with little or no income may receive and fill in county application forms for free bus passes.

Hawaii Medical Service Association also has visited Hale Kau Kau to help people to make sure they do not lose their Medicaid and Medicare coverage.

“It’s very fulfilling work because we’re helping people,” said Wallen, who has been the director for four years. “It feels good for the heart.”

Father William Kunisch of St. Theresa said the Church was happy to provide the service as part of its mission.

“It’s an opportunity to give and help to care for those who may be overlooked in our community,” he said.

He said there were so many groups including hotels who contribute to this program.

“It means a lot to us , and I’m glad we can do it together.”