Local Nonprofits In Need Of Donations Ahead Of Thanksgiving

Many local nonprofits adjusted their annual Thanksgiving dinners for social distancing, taking a grab-and-go approach.

While volunteer opportunities are slim during the pandemic, the need for donations is growing.

City Rescue Mission has done away with their traditional method of inviting volunteers to dine with clients.

This year, volunteers can sign up to pick up a box and fill it with decorations and centerpieces, to make clients feel more at home during the meal.

“It has been a really tough year. We’ve seen an increase in need and being able to socially distance and keep our clients safe has been much harder with the increase in need,” City Rescue Mission President and CEO Erin Goodin said.

Many of the boxes still need to be claimed before the deadline Friday.

Other Options Food Pantry has also had to change things up for the annual Cookie’s Thanksgiving.

The dinner, serving clients who are living with HIV, typically takes place in a local diner.

But this year, the pantry is giving clients boxes of food to prepare Thanksgiving food at home.

Executive Director Mary Arbuckle said the food pantry still needs small hams and sides for the boxes.

The Jesus House is still in need of several frozen turkeys and monetary donations for their Thanksgiving afternoon meal.

Also accepting monetary donations, the Free Food Pantry has a GoFundMe page.

Many local churches are recommending donations be made the Regional Food Bank ahead of the holiday.