Helping Hand for Thanksgiving

Published by editor on Wed, 11/08/2023 - 6:46am

By:

Amanda Rink, Editor

First Lutheran Food Pantry's Annual Turkey Drive in Wright County

Missy Loux, First Lutheran Food Pantry

For the second year in a row, the First Lutheran Food Pantry in Clarion aims to provide turkeys to families who need a helping hand this Thanksgiving. In 2022, the food pantry provided 34 turkeys to Wright County families through their Clarion location. This year, the food pantry anticipates providing up to 60 turkeys between their four pantry locations, which include Rowan, Woolstock, Goldfield, and Clarion. The total fundraising goal is $1800, which goes directly to covering the cost of a turkey.

$30 sponsors a turkey, though any amount is greatly appreciated. Community members may donate through the First Citizens Bank in Clarion, First Lutheran Church in Clarion, or GoFundMe. Please specify “turkey fund” when mailing or dropping off funds. Currently, there are families registered from every town throughout Wright County.

With the cost of living on the rise, the program aims to alleviate some of the financial burdens faced by the community, enabling them to create lasting memories during the holiday season. Serving nearly 1,000 individuals across their four-pantry network, the initiative addresses the pressing needs of the local community. The turkey fundraising drive truly helps Wright County community members carry on their Thanksgiving traditions.

Wright County community members from any town may register for a turkey by contacting the First Lutheran Church at 515-532-3440; the office is open 12:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. The deadline for registration is November 10th; you may choose from one of the four pick-up locations. The food pantry will provide one turkey per family and gathering.

For example, if multiple households are celebrating together, they would like to provide one turkey for the families to share to ensure that all that register for a turkey can receive one. Additional holiday items such as pies, potatoes, stuffing, and more will also be offered as supplies last, in addition to pantry staples, on the pick-up dates. Registration is limited.