This would have been the 50th year for Thanksgiving Meals on Wheels. But the pandemic has forced organizers to shut it down in 2020.
“Normally we would serving 17 thousand meals, but due to COVID it’s really tough to work with 2,000 volunteers,” said Bill Foussard, one of the founding members of the non-profit. “We just can’t do it safely.”
Thanksgiving Meals on Wheels started with just a few families in St. Paul wanting to help those in need. It’s grown over the years and now includes thousands of young people showing up at the crack of dawn to fill boxes, that then are distributed to the homes of people who need for the holiday.
“The energy is so special, with everyone thankful for all the blessings in their life,” Foussard told News Talk 830 WCCO's Susie Jones.
Foussard said some of the families are turning to other places, like the Union Gospel Mission, and Catholic Charities.
They too are helping people to get food.
“I took a lady shopping their other day,” he said. “She was the nicest lady, so appreciative,” he said.
With COVID-19 hitting families hard, he encourages everyone to do their part. “If you know a family in need, take food to them. Let’s make a difference for someone every day.”