Create Thanksgiving food boxes for Boise area families in need
With Thanksgiving just a couple of weeks away, many of us are eagerly awaiting the time with family, the delicious home-cooked meal and maybe even that glorious nap that is likely to follow after a full tummy.
As we reflect on what we are thankful for, it is hard not to think of those who go without meals on this day — or any other day, for that matter.
Fortunately, there are groups in the Treasure Valley that recognize this and do their part to help.
St. Vincent de Paul Southwest Idaho, whose mission is preventing homelessness, will continue its tradition of a Thanksgiving food box outreach program this holiday season — a program the organization has sponsored for 45 years.
It consists of putting together boxes containing a 10-pound turkey (or bigger), 10 pounds of potatoes, a roasting pan and all the fixins to prepare a Thanksgiving dinner for a family of four to six people. The food boxes are then distributed to families in need.
There are two options to help give Ada County families a warm meal this year.
▪ The community is invited to shop for the items themselves from a provided grocery list. An empty food box will be supplied by St. Vincent de Paul or a participating church. Go to svdpid.org/thanksgiving-box-how-to-donate.
▪ For those not quite comfortable shopping, you can make a financial contribution and St. Vincent de Paul will buy the items and compile a box on your behalf. Go to svdpid.org/thanksgiving-contribute-financially.
“The Thanksgiving Food Box Program is a demonstration of the true meaning and spirit of giving. Each year, I never cease to be amazed at the kindness and generosity within our community,” said Ralph May, executive director of St. Vincent de Paul Southwest Idaho, in a news release. “Church congregations, local businesses and individuals in the Treasure Valley come together to provide a Thanksgiving dinner to families, who without this program would be unable to afford one. I encourage those who can partake in this family-to-family act of charity, it is one you will not want to miss.”
Those in need of a Thanksgiving meal can register on the website to receive a food box at either the St. Vincent de Paul Holiday Hub in Boise or the St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry in Meridian. Limit one box per Ada County home consisting of two or more people. Bring your photo ID and proof of current address. For a schedule of registration dates, go to svdpid.org/receive-a-box. Last day to register is Wednesday, Nov. 17.
Food boxes will then be distributed to the registered families at Expo Idaho on Nov. 22-23. The pickup details will be arranged during individual registration.
For more information on the St. Vincent de Paul Thanksgiving Food Box Program, or if you are interested in volunteering to distribute the boxes, go to svdpid.org/thanksgiving.