Carver’s Driving Academy donated 130 meals to first responders and homeless shelters in Augusta, Hinkley and Lewiston this Thanksgiving. Photo courtesy of Ryan Carver

AUGUSTA — Two central Maine organizations are teaming up this holiday season to offer a free Christmas Eve lunch to anyone in the community and to provide rides to anyone who needs help getting there.

The Maine Arts Academy is inviting people to the holiday celebration starting at noon Tuesday, and Carver’s Driving Academy is providing rides for those who need them and is also offering meal delivery.

Ryan Carver, owner of Carver’s Driving Academy, said they are trying to get as many people to the event as they can.

“The amount of people in the community that need assistance is at an all-time high and we want to make sure everyone in the community has a chance to eat a warm meal in a warm location,” said Carver.

Heather King, Maine Arts Academy’s head of school, said Carver approached her with the idea.

“This is our first year,” said King. “We really wanted to give back to the Augusta community.”

They plan to serve turkey, potatoes, vegetables and stuffing.

Griffin Boudreaux, a student at Maine Arts Academy, will offer live entertainment.

Maine Arts Academy is located at 310 Cony Road in Augusta. Contact Carver at 207-458-9496 to arrange a ride to the event.