Pass the Gravy, Share the Love

Want to help others have a happy Thanksgiving? Here are seven Wilmington-area organizations in need of donations or volunteers this Thanksgiving.

As the aroma of pumpkin pie fills the air and turkeys take the stage, the Thanksgiving spirit seems to spread all around our beach town. The season brings family and friends together to enjoy a warm meal and good times with loved ones, but for some, putting food on the table can be challenging.

The true essence of Thanksgiving lies in the act of giving, and the Wilmington community is serving up many opportunities to give back. Whether you are interested in donating food, volunteering your time or finding other meaningful ways to contribute, here are some fantastic ways to make a difference in your community this Thanksgiving. Click the links to go to the website for each organization.

Nourish NC: Give the Gift of a Thanksgiving Dinner

Nourish NC is on a mission to provide food-insecure children and families with a complete take-and-bake thanksgiving Dinner. This includes turkey, fresh produce and all the classic fixings. You can make a significant impact on a child’s life through Nourish NC for as little as $35.

The Healing Place of New Hanover County Thanksgiving Food Drive

Join The Healing Place of New Hanover County (THPNC) in creating a memorable Thanksgiving for those in need. THPNC is accepting donations as well as volunteer time and funds. Contributors will be honored on their gratitude wall. Check their website for a complete list of needed groceries.

Adopt a Family with UNCW & The Isaac Center

UNCW has partnered up with the Sister Isaac Center at the Basilica Shrine of St. Mary’s to provide groceries for holiday meals to families in need. Simply purchase and deliver the groceries to UNCW Fisher Center by Monday, November 25. This is a super easy and rewarding way to ensure families have a Thanksgiving meal to enjoy.

Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina: Meal Donations

Don’t have time to volunteer? The Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina is accepting donations to supply Thanksgiving meals to those in need. Through this organization, you can help provide meals for as little as a $10 donation!

Wilmington Police Department & Pinnacle Storage: Thanksgiving Meal Giveaway

The Wilmington Police Department has partnered with Pinnacle storage for a chance to win a free Thanksgiving meal, including a frozen turkey, pumpkin pie, canned vegetables and more. This is open to families of four residing in New Hanover County. Visit their website for details on how to enter.

Northside Food Co-op: Free Holiday Meals

Be one of the first 100 families at the 2nd Annual Northside Food Co-op Harvest Hangout to receive a free take-home holiday meal. Join the fun at Dreams of Wilmington, 901 Fanning Street, on November 22 from 5 to 8 pm.

Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard: Year-Round Donations

Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard accepts donations all year long. Whether you drop off food at 315 Red Cross Street in Wilmington or donate via PayPal, your contributions are always welcome and appreciated at Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard, especially this holiday season!

The Wilmington community has put together some amazing ways we can donate, volunteer or simply raise awareness to ensure that everyone in our community has the chance to enjoy a warm holiday meal. Let’s embrace the true meaning of Thanksgiving by supporting one another and making this season a little brighter for everyone.