McBob's Pub & Grill anticipates serving free Thanksgiving meals to about 300 local veterans

WAUWATOSA, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Many people are gathering at home this holiday season to eat a delicious Thanksgiving meal with their loved ones, but some are not so lucky--that's why a local pub has continued to host their annual meal giveaway to veterans in the Milwaukee area.

On Thursday, McBob's Pub & Grill served 40 turkeys to about 300 local veterans, and mostly those who do not have housing or have problems related to housing insecurity.

The tradition is part of the Milwaukee VA’s HUD-VASH program. It's the seventh consecutive year that they have provided a free Thanksgiving meal to veterans. Among the items served: Turkey, mashed potatoes, vegetables, and pie.

 Steve Schmich, an army veteran, is the co-owner and organizer of the annual feast. He said it is all possible thanks to community donations. 

He said he and his wife always noticed there was a significant number of homeless veterans in the area and wanted to help.

"Actually, my wife came up with the idea, 'why don't we open it up at the pub and at the restaurant and feed some of our homeless veterans?'" Schmich recalled. "It's blossomed after seven years; we've opened it up now to our Paralyzed Veteran's Chapter in Wisconsin, and also a lot of the PTSD veterans who we can serve."

The organizer added that they are hoping to raise at least $2,000 in donations to go toward the Wisconsin Chapter for Paralyzed Veterans. 

Meals were served from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. at 4919 W. North Ave.