Daily Local News (West Chester, PA)
THIS YEAR, LOCAL STRUGGLING FAMILIES WILL HAVE A THANKSGIVING TO REMEMBER
KENNETT SQUARE >> The neediest families in southern Chester County will have a Thanksgiving to remember this year.
On Saturday morning, more than 500 turkeys, including a bag that contained stuffing, cranberry sauce and other fixings were distributed by Kennett Area Community Service in Kennett Square.
“There is going to be a lot of great Thanksgivings this year,” said Melanie Weiler, executive director of Kennett Area Community Service. “The generosity from the community has been great this year.”
The turkeys were distributed to participants of the Kennett Food Cupboard, and also to families referred by LaComunidad Hispana, the Carter Family Foundation, Tick Tock Early Learning Center and St. Rocco’s parish. All are living below the poverty level in Chester County.
Most of the turkeys were donated by a single, anonymous individual, while the “fixings,” were donated by members of St. Patrick’s parish in Kennett Square, and St. Michael’s parish in Unionville.
Weiler said the number of turkeys given away is about the same as last year.
“It’s been a little flat the last two years, but that is a good thing to see because the numbers aren’t growing,” Weiler said. “Plus, a lot of people have moved out of the area.”
Some people also brought pies to be included in the distribution.
“The holidays are a particularly
stressful time financially for people, so they appreciate the opportunity to get a meal so they can provide for their families,” Weiler said. “The generosity from the community has been great this year.”
About 550 turkeys were given away, and Weiler said another 100 will be given away on Dec. 15, in time for the Christmas season.
“This is just another incredible event that happens each year and our families really, really appreciate it,” Weiler said.