In a community effort to support families in need this Thanksgiving, Catholic Charities of the Finger Lakes launched a three-day food drive, aiming to collect 500 frozen turkeys at the Walmart in Seneca Falls. The initiative began on November 14, 2025, with volunteers rallying together to address the growing food insecurity exacerbated by recent economic challenges, including a government shutdown impacting SNAP benefits.
The food drive is designed to not only gather turkeys but also to collect non-perishable food items to bolster local food pantries across Seneca, Ontario, and Cayuga counties. “There are so many families in need of just putting food on the table, especially with the holidays coming up,” said volunteer Cruz, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Community Engagement and Incentives
As the drive continues through to noon on Sunday, volunteers have been working tirelessly, with some starting their day as early as 3 a.m.. “I was up at 12:30 this morning,” Cruz shared, holding a cup of coffee. To incentivize donations, volunteers are offering fresh cider donuts to those who contribute.
Rae, another volunteer dressed in a turkey costume, added, “If you bring a donation, you get a cider donut, fresh made in the house and some cider.” This festive approach is aimed at fostering a sense of community while addressing critical food shortages.
Importance of Community Support
Cruz emphasized the importance of community solidarity, stating, “We need to get together and do something good for the community, bringing everybody together to help other families.” The drive not only aids local food banks but also serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to support those facing hardship.
As of now, the response has been encouraging, but organizers urge continued contributions to meet their goal. Donations can be dropped off at the Walmart on North Road in Seneca Falls, and monetary donations are also accepted online. This initiative stands as a beacon of hope for many families looking to enjoy a warm Thanksgiving meal amidst challenging circumstances.
