Non-profits looking for food donations ahead of Friday Thanksgiving dinners

Thanksgiving is approaching and some local non-profits are eager to find supplies to feed those in need.

On Friday, Regina’s Souls Harbour Rescue Mission and Carmichael Outreach are both hosting in-person Thanksgiving dinners for the first time since 2019.

They’re set to welcome hundreds of people to their locations, but both say they’re in need of things — especially turkeys.

“We’re expecting around 600 people,” said Souls Harbour executive director Joseph Miller. “Six hundred people means we need a lot of food.

“Our primary needs right now are turkeys, pumpkin pie and some vegetables. Fresh vegetables are something that a lot of these people don’t get, and with inflation, everything is going up if you’re trying to buy this stuff yourself.”

Miller says he’s looking for another 20 to 40 turkeys before Friday’s meal. Any excess supply they receive will be used.

Aurora Marinari with Carmichael Outreach says they’re also looking for turkey donations.

“We are looking to feed around 300 people and right now we’re really short on turkeys and stuffing,” she said.

“We need enough for 300 people and time is running low now so we’ll take what we can get. If we somehow ended up with too much, there’s the community pantry that we can always put things in so that people can take something home over the weekend too.”

Both Miller and Marinari say their organization’s Thanksgiving dinner is something that everybody looks forward to.

“We’re back to sitdown (meals). We’ve reduced the capacity a little bit. They’ll come in, sit down and have a meal. The lineup goes down the block and we try to move that line as quick as we can,” Miller explained.

“This is our first Thanksgiving where people can actually dine inside since 2019 (due to COVID-19),” Marinari said. “It’s been three long years. It’s a nice way for them to come in and sit with their friends and family.

“With the staff, volunteers and other folks coming together, it’s just a really nice way for everyone to come together.”

People can donate to Souls Harbour Rescue Mission either by going online or visiting 1632 Angus St. Those interested in donating to Carmichael Outreach can visit 1510 12th Ave., and drop off any supplies.