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Pocono News Section
Thanksgiving Meals Provided for Those in Need
Thanksgiving Meals Provided for Those in Need - Saturday, November 14, 2009 at 6:05PM EST
Reported by: Kyla Campbell
Saturday, Nov 14, 2009 @ 06:05pm EST
PLAINS TOWNSHIP, LUZERNE COUNTY -- People here waited in line for hours. Not for Black Friday sales. Not to get their picture taken with Santa at the mall. They're waiting, simply, for food.
"I'm amazed. I am totally, totally amazed at everything they've got," said Florence Wood of Luzerne. It's food many take for granted, but it's something she's grateful for. "Oh, I really am appreciative, honestly, because when you don't have and people are willing to help and give you things, I mean, I'm going to cry."
Many people in our area might not have a Thankgiving dinner on their tables unless they get help. That's where the Commission on Economic Opportunity, or CEO, comes in. The group expects to provide holiday meals to more than 8,000 families.
"This is the 30th year that we're doing it," said Gene Brady, CEO's Executive Director. "And I think because of the economy this year, it's going to be our largest year."
Volunteers tell us some people are embarrassed to get help.
"We see people that never come in before and they apologize to us," said Linda Ravert. "And we keep on trying to tell them, we're here because we use the food bank, too. I mean, there's no shame in it."
CEO officials say the point of the 30th Annual Thanksgiving Project is to make sure people who have, give. And people who need, receive.
"It's really a community effort at Thanksgiving," said Brady.
A woman who didn't want to go on camera tells us her family needs this.
"You can't let your kids suffer. You've got to think about your kids first. That's why I'm doing this - my kids," she said. "I mean, I had good Thanksgivings when I was growing up. They're entitled to one, too. This is going to help so much."
CEO can help you pre-register for food if needed. You can call 825-0968, 208-7017, or 825-0268 Monday through Friday, 9am-4pm. Anyone wishing to volunteer with the distribution can call 826-0510, ext. 215. Donations can be sent to CEO Thanksgiving Project, PO Box 1127, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18703-1127. | | |
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