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Now Accepting Thanksgiving Donations at Catholic Charities of Southern Nevada

October 18, 2023

The fall season is approaching fast as the leaves change color and the air turns crisper. It's the time of year when you can gather with loved ones, express gratitude, and indulge in delicious feasts. But for many low-income residents of Southern Nevada, the thought of a bountiful Thanksgiving meal is overshadowed by the challenges they face in putting food on the table. Rising grocery costs and economic uncertainties have exacerbated food insecurity, making it increasingly difficult for struggling families to celebrate the holiday season with the traditional turkey feast. This is where our team at Catholic Charities of Southern Nevada (CCSN) steps in, and we need your help.

Giving Back During the Holidays

The act of giving back during the holidays is a powerful gesture of compassion and empathy. It's a reminder that as we gather around our own tables to enjoy a hearty Thanksgiving feast, there are many among us who struggle to put food on their plates. The rising cost of groceries and economic uncertainties have compounded the challenges faced by low-income residents in Southern Nevada. For them, the idea of a bountiful Thanksgiving meal can seem like a distant dream.

CCSN recognizes that the spirit of giving back takes many forms. While donations of frozen turkeys and Thanksgiving items are greatly appreciated, we also understand and appreciate the value of monetary donations. These contributions are like the backbone of support that enables CCSN to serve our community effectively. Your monetary donation, regardless of its size, can make a significant impact. It allows CCSN to purchase essential items, fill in the gaps, and ensure that no family goes hungry during the holiday season.

The annual turkey drive is a cornerstone of CCSN's efforts to help families in need during the holiday season. It's a call to action, an opportunity for the community to come together and share the blessings of the season with those less fortunate. Donating frozen turkey or nonperishable Thanksgiving items is not just an act of charity — it's an act of love and compassion. 

Monetary Donations: Making a Difference

You can make a significant impact by contributing not only with food donations, but also through monetary donations. Small donations of funds, food, or your precious time can go a long way in helping families in need this holiday season. Remember, every dollar counts and can help provide a warm Thanksgiving meal to a family struggling to put food on the table.

By donating to families in need, you're not only offering financial assistance, but also a message of support and solidarity. Your act of kindness demonstrates that you recognize the struggles faced by those less fortunate, and you're willing to step forward to make a meaningful impact on their lives.

Items Needed For Holiday Food Drive

In addition to collecting frozen turkeys, we will collect the following holiday food items to ensure that families can enjoy a warm and nutritious Thanksgiving meal:

  • Stuffing: A comforting and delicious side dish that complements the turkey perfectly.
  • Boxed Mashed Potatoes and Gravy: Easy-to-prepare staples that complete the meal.
  • Cranberry Sauce: A sweet and tangy addition that enhances the flavors of the holiday dishes.
  • Canned Yams: A nutritious and heartwarming side that adds a touch of sweetness.
  • Canned Vegetables: Nutrient-packed vegetables to balance the meal.
  • Canned Pumpkin: Essential for making classic pumpkin pies, a Thanksgiving favorite.
  • Canned Protein: Ensures that families have a source of protein in their holiday meals.

Beyond the Holiday Feast: 

While these holiday items are vital, we also understand that the colder months can bring additional challenges. To further assist families in need, we are collecting:

  • Gently Used Winter Clothing and Jackets: Keeping our neighbors warm during the winter season is a priority.
  • Shoes, Hats, Gloves, and New Socks: Basic essentials for staying cozy and comfortable.
  • Welcome Home Baskets: These include laundry detergent, new kitchen towels, bath towels, dish soap, sponges, paper goods, a laundry basket, new twin sheet sets, and a shower curtain. These items help families establish a sense of home and stability during challenging times.

Your generosity, whether through participating in our turkey drive, contributing to the holiday food drive, or donating these essential items, is a powerful way to give back during the holidays. It ensures that families in need can experience the warmth and togetherness that define this season of giving. Together, we can make a significant impact and provide support to those who need it most. Thank you for being a part of our mission to feed the hungry and uplift our community during the holidays.

Turkey Drive: When and Where You Can Donate

The annual turkey drive is in full swing, and CCSN would appreciate your support. We are accepting frozen turkeys and nonperishable dinner fixings like boxed potatoes, stuffing, gravy, and canned goods (green beans, cranberry sauce, yams, and pumpkin) daily from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. You can drop off your donations at the Catholic Charities campus, located at 1501 Las Vegas Blvd. North, Las Vegas, NV 89101. Your contribution can make all the difference in the lives of those who need it most.

Thanksgiving Donations: Becoming a Part of Something Bigger

Ahead of the holiday season, CCSN will begin distributing Thanksgiving meal boxes to registered Hands of Hope families and preparing Meals on Wheels packages for over 2,000 home bound seniors. On Thanksgiving Day, Catholic Charities will serve its 58th annual free holiday community meal to 700 men, women, and children. This is made possible through the kindness of people like you.

This holiday season, let's come together as a community to ensure that no one goes to bed hungry on Thanksgiving. Whether you donate a turkey, offer a monetary contribution, or volunteer your time, your generosity will be deeply appreciated and will have a lasting impact on the lives of those in need.

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