This holiday season, Feed the Need Foundation is once again bringing warmth and hope to families in need throughout the Rockbridge County, Lexington and Buena Vista school systems.
Through the support of local partners, businesses and the community, the Foundation is ensuring families can enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving meal with their loved ones, said Kathy Larlee, Foundation chairman.
“We have provided 300 turkeys for families in the Buena Vista City Schools. In this effort, the Rotary Club, in partnership with the schools, is supplying the side items to complement the turkeys, making a complete Thanksgiving meal possible for these families,” she said.
In addition, Feed the Need is purchasing turkeys for all families in need within the Lexington and Rockbridge County school systems. “These turkeys, along with the other meal essentials, will be distributed to families who have registered for assistance, ensuring they can celebrate the holiday season with dignity and gratitude,” she said.
Feed the Need Foundation has partnered with Walmart Lexington to collect essential Thanksgiving food items such as stuffing, canned yams, mashed potatoes, and rolls. Shoppers are encouraged to contribute by purchasing and donating these items at checkout.
Registered families within Lexington and Rockbridge County schools will receive a complete meal box, including the turkeys provided by Feed the Need. “The collection effort at Walmart plays a vital role in rounding out these meal boxes and providing a festive holiday experience for families in need,” said Larlee.
Besides adding a needed item to their carts at Walmart and donating it at checkout, area residents interested in helping with this project can also volunteer with the program, assisting with sorting and distribution. Area residents can also share the initiative on social media or with friends to help grow the support network.
This initiative is made possible through partnerships with Walmart Lexington, the Community Foundation of RBAC, Buena Vista Police Department, “and countless volunteers whose kindness reflects the spirit of the season,” said Larlee.
“Our mission is to ensure that every family has the opportunity to gather around the table and celebrate Thanksgiving,” said. Larlee. “By providing turkeys and working alongside our community partners, we’re bringing hope and support to families who need it most.”
For more information about how to register for a meal or to support Feed the Need Foundation’s Thanksgiving initiative, visit Feed the Need Foundation’s website or call Larlee at (800) 484-8682 or (540) 466-0571.