This year, we served 170 families with 14–16-pound turkeys, paired with blue bags of essential groceries and side dishes to help families celebrate Thanksgiving. Our offerings included a bounty of mixed vegetables, yams, gravy, mashed potatoes, stuffing, two types of corn, two types of green beans, Jello, rice, Pinto beans, fudge cake, and a tray of cookies. These items are more than just food; they’re a way to bring families together, creating moments of joy and togetherness around the dinner table.
When we arrived at Richard Edwards to stage the food and begin serving, we were greeted by a line of families that stretched around the block. It was a visual reminder of how many are struggling and how important this service has become to the community. We completed the distribution of 170 turkeys and blue bags in approximately 20 minutes.
However, despite our best efforts, we were faced with the heartbreaking reality that we had to turn people away. It’s a reminder of just how urgent the need is for future efforts to support this community. We know that this service is only one small piece of the puzzle, and that the work is far from done.
But even in the face of need, there’s a sense of hope. It’s in the smiles of those who were able to receive food, the thank-yous from families who knew their holidays would be a little brighter, and the commitment of volunteers who give their time year after year.
To everyone who made this year’s turkey and blue bag distribution possible — volunteers, donors, and supporters — thank you for your generosity, your time, and your heart. You are what make this effort so powerful.
Here’s to many more years of giving, serving, and uplifting our community together.
For more pictures visit our Facebook Album titled, 2024 Thanksgiving Blue Bags Richard Edwards.
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