Thanksgiving demand up 30% at Food Bank

Each holiday season, the Food Bank gives local families the chance to enjoy a Thanksgiving meal with our annual turkey box program. This year, the agency processed a record 2,174 turkey box requests, an increase of 30% from last year.

More than just a meal, this food brings hope at a time when it is needed the most. The holidays place added stress on people already struggling to make ends meet. A turkey box from the Food Bank allows a family to celebrate a Thanksgiving feast, a blessing that many of us take for granted.

In a recent letter from a Communities in Schools liaison from the Hays CISD, a Program Manager shared stories from her experience with this program. She relates, "I have had the privilege of delivering turkey boxes within Hays County for the past four years. The stories and thanks I've heard are truly unforgettable.

Upon delivering a box to a family of eight, the youngest child digs through the box and excitedly yells, 'Aw cool, Mom, look pumpkin pie!' Another sibling hollers out, 'Mmm, pumpkin pie. I love Thanksgiving! Look, Mom, now we'll actually have a turkey to make for Thanksgiving.' Mom was eternally grateful and shared, 'Yeah, we didn't know what we were going to make. We would have probably just had whatever. Then you called and put me on the list. Thank you!'

While delivering another box to a family of five, the youngest runs out to my car and helps me with the box of goodies. He is eager to help with what will make this the 'Best Thanksgiving Ever!'

I'd like to extend a HUGE thank you to the Hays County Food Bank. You not only provide meals for empty tummies, but you provide hope and assurance to families all over Hays County." Signed, Erica, from Buda.

The Food Bank partners with over 45 groups like Communities in Schools to help distribute turkey boxes. Local churches, schools, social service agencies, and other organizations that work with low-income people in Hays County submit names for the turkey box list. The names are entered into a database and checked to avoid duplications. Once the number of boxes is finalized, an order is placed for the turkeys, cranberry sauce, and other box ingredients. Assembly and distribution of the boxes takes place the week before Thanksgiving.

Thanks to each of our faithful donors who help make a real difference in the lives of hungry people. You make all of this possible!