SARASOTA COUNTY (WSNN) – Thanksgiving is a time of giving thanks and filling our tummies with food. But for some, it’s a painful reminder of hunger. So, one non-profit plans to help the hungry.
“People equate the holiday with food, an abundance of food and we really want to be able to share that joy with everyone in our community,” All Faiths Food Bank CEO Sandra Frank said.
Frank says it’s especially important this year because the financial impacts of the pandemic are still affecting families on the Suncoast.
“It’s true, that the level of need is still high and that has not diminished this year for us,” Frank said.
In 2020, All Faiths saw a sharp increase in the community’s need for its services. Already this year, the non-profit has distributed almost 40-percent more food than it did the year before the pandemic.
“When food costs go up, which they have, they have really skyrocketed, it has an exponential impact on people who are already food insecure,” Frank said.
So, instead of empty plates this Thanksgiving, All Faiths is helping fill them with its 16th annual Turkey giveaway at the Ed Smith Stadium in Sarasota, Thursday, starting at 4 pm.
“I’m really feeling very honored to be able to provide turkey dinners to people this year, it’s been a tough year,” Frank said.
Staff and volunteers plan to distribute about 13,000 turkeys with sides like potatoes, green beans, cranberry sauce, and more.
“This is actually the busiest week of the year for us, it is crazy busy here,” Frank said.
These meals are only for people of Sarasota County who can’t afford to buy a Thanksgiving meal for their families.
“So I hope people keep that in mind. Let’s think of others who are in need and let’s give them the space and opportunity to have a wonderful thanksgiving day,” Frank said.
Additional turkey distributions are taking place in DeSoto County and through the non-profit’s partner agencies, including school pantries and mobile pantries. You can find this information on its website here. Proof of Sarasota or DeSoto County residency is required.
“We want to distribute, about three million meals and we’re on track to do it again this year,” Frank said.