Gratitude is the Attitude for America First Volunteers

America First volunteers were busy giving back during the week of Thanksgiving. They spent hours taking inventory of stuffing, mashed potatoes, vegetables, gravy packets, and more at the For the Kids facility in Salt Lake City, Utah. On the morning of November 21, they organized 70 Thanksgiving meals for families from M. Lynn Bennion Elementary School and 50 more for Robert Frost Elementary School. For the Kids Program Director Paul Welsh understands the impact it will have on communities in need, “The volunteers at America First stepping in and helping like this has provided such an emotional lift to those who otherwise would go without. Fighting hunger can be a silent struggle for so many out there and this kind of contribution makes such a difference.”

The meals go a long way to help families coming from Title I schools. Title I is a federal education program that supports low-income students throughout the nation. Funds are distributed to high poverty schools, as determined by the number of students who qualify for free or reduced lunch.

In addition, over 200 Thanksgiving meals were handed out at Catholic Community Services on November 22 by several employees of America First. Families were also able to enter the building and take the shopping cart which had already been prepared with everything needed for a delicious holiday feast.

Rachel Martin of Catholic Community Services said, “We really appreciate America First for always being there to support us! With a small staff of only 11 employees, we rely on volunteers to keep our food pantry running. For our Thanksgiving holiday food handout event this year, we have 860 households signed up to pick up their Thanksgiving dinner box. Each dinner box includes a turkey, stuffing, cranberries, potatoes, onions, etc. to provide a holiday meal to individuals and families in the community facing food insecurity. America First has played a huge part in making this a success.”

This comes about a month after the America First Charitable Foundation food drive produced over 110,000 meals to many families who are food insecure. You can donate to this worthy cause all year round by going to americafirst.com/donate.

The battle against hunger has always been a key emphasis for America First EVP Chief Strategic Engagement Officer, Tammy Gallegos. “We have an important responsibility in our communities to be a part of the solution to help children and families in need. Fighting hunger is always going to be a major priority when helping those we serve. We’re honored to help give families a warm and fulfilling Thanksgiving, but most importantly hope they feel our genuine love and care for them.”