The Reno-Sparks Gospel Mission, including staff and volunteers, plans to hit the streets on Wednesday to give out 200 frozen turkeys and all the fixings for Thanksgiving Dinner. This community outreach effort is part of its Random Acts of Kindness Event, an annual service for families in need.
"We've been giving turkeys and meals away for several years at Christmas time, but the need in our community has grown so much over the last two years, that we decided to add another Random Act of Kindness Event for Thanksgiving also." said Luis Santoni, Mission Executive Director. "Hunger is a community problem that requires a community solution. We are amazed how appreciative and thankful people are. It touches our staff and volunteers so much we are excited to reach out in two events this year!
On Wednesday, November 17th at 1 p.m., teams of volunteers will meet at the Mission's warehouse, 2115 Timber Way, Reno, NV 89512 before fanning out across several neighborhoods to knock on doors passing out the holiday meals to anyone in need.
"We're knocking at 3, 400 doors. It'll take roughly two, two and a half hours to do, but it's a small price to pay to be able to help somebody in need." Santoni said.
Santoni said there is a greater need for community support due to challenges, including inflation.
"Northern Nevada is expensive, costs are going up exponentially in terms of rent, and also utilities are going up. Everything is going up. Food costs are going up. he said. ""The need is great, it's always there. It's something that's happening here in our community and it's affecting us. More and more people are needing more and more food, and we want to be that vessel."
If you would like to support the food pantry, financial and non-perishable food items can be dropped off at its warehouse located at 2115 Timber Way, Reno, Nevada 89512.
You can reach out to Mariah Peaslee at 775-323-0386 X16 or Mariah@rsgm.org to volunteer or help in the non-profits operations.
(Reno-Sparks Gospel Mission contributed to this report).
