Pocono News Section

Planning Underway For Scranton Thanksgiving Events

Planning Underway For Scranton Thanksgiving Events - Thursday, November 5, 2009 at 5:40PM EST

Reported by: Eric Deabill
Thursday, Nov 5, 2009 @ 05:40pm EST
SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA COUNTY - Believe it or not, there are now just three weeks until Thanksgiving. Final planning is underway for two big community events in Lackawanna County.

Dozens of people came together Thursday morning at the Scranton Cultural Center. They are preparing for the annual Thanksgiving Dinner put together by the Friends of the Poor and the annual Family-to-Family program.

Because of the economy, organizers expect more people to turn out for both.

"I think we'll see a lot more people coming, both to the dinner and the family-to-family program, but we're also getting a lot of phone calls from people who want to help," organizer Sister Maryalice Jacquinot said.

Donations of money and volunteers are needed to make the events successful. No one is turned away. Last year, more than 1,700 meals were served at the Thanksgiving dinner alone. Volunteers say it is well worth the time.

"It's an excellent feeling. It's like I really helped out and made somebody happy," volunteer Felicia Turner said.

"There's just something you know? That feeling, about helping out somebody that makes you feel good about yourself," volunteer Michael Venezio said.

Besides the Thanksgiving dinner, the family-to-family program is also expecting more requests. That program gives out food baskets to needy families.

"I have already ordered 200 more baskets for 200 more families," organizer Mary Lou Burne said. "I'm hoping there won't be more than that but who knows in this economy."

Organizers say the food costs roughly $80,000. They also need donations. They've already gotten some help with a $10,000 donation from the Lackawanna Bar Association.

"We have never not made our goal. We've always had enough money to pay for the food and I'm sure that like-wise the people in this area will make this another successful year," Dr. Jim Burne said.

The annual Thanksgiving Dinner celebration will be at the Scranton Cultural Center on Tuesday, November 24th at 6:00 PM. If you would like to donate or volunteer, call 348-4428 or 348-4429.

The family-to-family program will begin at the Cultural Center on Wednesday, November 25th beginning at 9:00 AM.

If you would like to donate, send a donation to:

Family to Family
444 Orchard Street
Scranton, PA 18505