Thanksgiving Distribution Update

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, we wanted to share a quick update. Since November 20, The Greater Boston Food Bank (GBFB) has distributed almost 16,000 turkeys and, in response to requests from individuals and small families, more than 25,000 roasting chickens and boneless turkey breasts.

Since October 1, to help round out Thanksgiving meals, GBFB has distributed more than 2 million pounds of fresh produce including apples, onions, turnips, carrots, butternut squash and sweet potatoes as well as cranberry sauce, canned yams and gravy. So far, this is a 60% increase in distribution over last year. Our goal is to continue to increase produce distribution to support nutritious eating and meal planning. In addition to the makings of traditional holiday meals, we have shared $10,000 in grocery gift cards with our partner agencies so that clients can create their own menus.

At this stage, with less than a week left to go, we have already distributed almost 260,000 holiday meals. Compared to last year, this is a 23% increase in product distribution since October 1. While we are proud to help so many in Eastern Massachusetts, these numbers bring reality to the growing need as individuals and families continue to struggle to keep up with the cost of living. We thank our partners, donors, volunteers and everyone who have made this holiday meal distribution possible. Our efforts have made a difference and will allow families across Eastern Massachusetts to have a healthier and happier holiday.

– Cheryl Schondek, Vice President of Acquisition