Now that the costumes have been put away, the candy has been inventoried and the candles in our jack-o-lanterns have been blown out, we’ve found ourselves solidly in the Thanksgiving season!

As we gear up for family gatherings and warm home-cooked meals, there are many opportunities to make sure other people in our community also have full bellies this holiday season. Below is a list of just a few of the ways we can give back during this time of year:

• This year, Charlotte Rescue Mission has the goal of providing 5,000 Thanksgiving meal boxes to families in need, but they need help to reach that goal. According to their website, a donation of just $2.00 can provide a Thanksgiving meal. Learn more here.

• Supporting WIF nonprofit partner, The Bulb, provides an opportunity for families living in food deserts to have fresh and healthy foods to feed their families for the holidays. Read more about their markets or donate your time here.

• Hope Street Pantry serves families in the 28269 zip code by providing food and acceptance to those in need. With the goal of feeding 300 families this Thanksgiving, Hope Street Pantry needs support from our community.  Learn about 8 different ways you can help here.

• Second Harvest Food Bank is holding its Annual Harvest Feast Marathon Food/Fund Drive at Stonecrest at Piper Glen Shopping Center on November 11, 12, and 19, 2022. Learn more about the event here. Can’t join in person? You can text “shmetrolina” to 243725 or round up your Harris Teeter purchase now through December 31, 2022.

• Another WIF nonprofit partner, Community Culinary School of Charlotte, is offering Thanksgiving dinners for $29.50 per person. Order your meals here by November 18. Proceeds go to support the school in supporting workforce development in the culinary arts. Learn more about their impact on our community here.