Rising need, government shutdown and federal cuts leave many families facing empty plates this holiday season
“As the holiday season approaches, many families are preparing to gather around the table and give thanks. Yet, for thousands of local families, the joy of a Thanksgiving meal is far from guaranteed,” leaders of All Faiths Food Bank point out.
“As devastating federal cuts to food and health assistance programs hit home” — and the government shutdown has delayed delivery of benefits and paychecks for local families — “this ‘season of plenty’ will look very different for many in our community,” a news release says.
“Between January and September, All Faiths Food Bank saw visits rise by 24%, compared to the same period last year,” the release notes. “That number is expected to grow as the full impact of these government policy decisions take hold,” it continues.
“To ensure no one goes without a holiday meal, All Faiths Food Bank is once again hosting Thanksgiving distributions across Sarasota County, providing turkeys and all the trimmings to neighbors in need. These distributions are part of the annual ThankFULL campaign, a three-month community effort to raise funds for 14,500 turkeys and 4.1 million holiday meals for families across Sarasota and DeSoto counties,” the release points out with emphasis.
“The relief you see on people’s faces as they realize their family will be able to enjoy a festive holiday meal together is palpable,” said AFFB’s President and CEO Nelle S. Miller in the release. “I look forward to these distributions each year, knowing that the joy of the holiday season will be felt in thousands of homes in our community, thanks to the generosity of all who contribute to our ThankFULL campaign,” Miller added in the release.
“This year, turkey distributions for Sarasota County residents will be held at the following locations and times, the release notes:
- Ed Smith Stadium (2700 12th St. in Sarasota) on Wednesday, Nov. 19, from 4 to 6 p.m. (in partnership with the Baltimore Orioles).
- Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall (777 N. Tamiami Trail in Sarasota) on Saturday, Nov. 22, from 9 to 11 a.m.
- In South County, community members may find turkey dinners at the Englewood Sports Complex (1300 S River Road Englewood) on Nov. 20, from 9 to 10:30 a.m.
The release emphasizes, “All distributions are first-come, first-served and while supplies last. Proof of Sarasota County residency is required.”
Through Thanksgiving, the release continues, “additional turkey distributions will take place at several of All Faiths’ mobile pantry sites, as well as through numerous partner agency locations — including closed sites, such as schools and youth-serving nonprofits.
“The ThankFULL campaign is made possible through the generous support of individuals, foundations and corporate partners, including the Kathleen K. Catlin Foundation of the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, which has championed this effort for 25 years,” the release points out.
“Each turkey, each meal, represents hope and kindness in action,” All Faiths President and CEO Miller said in the release. “Together, we can make sure every table is full this Thanksgiving.”
To find a food distribution site, visit allfaithsfoodbank.org and click on “Food Finder.”