‘Emotional tug of war.’ 2nd Harvest Thanksgiving meal drive helps 100s of Tri-Citians
Hundreds of Tri-Cities families will be able to share a meal this Thanksgiving thanks to 2nd Harvest and local food banks.
Cars began lining up more than an hour early in Columbia Park on Tuesday as volunteers handed out the last 200 Thanksgiving meal boxes in this year’s distribution.
Altogether 2nd Harvest helped more than 1,500 families with a free turkey and everything else they needed for Thanksgiving dinner, Community Partnerships Director Eric Williams told the Tri-City Herald.
About 1 in 8 people in the Tri-Cities area are considered food insecure, according to Feeding America. That means they lack access to enough affordable, healthy food.
He called the annual event an “emotional tug of war” because it’s difficult to see so many families in need, but it warms their hearts being able to help.
The Columbia Park event was the third distribution this week in the Tri-Cities, and among dozens in the 26-county region of Eastern Washington that 2nd Harvest serves in partnership with local food banks.
“We’re a food bank for food banks. We work with partner agencies, over 250 across 26 counties,” Williams said. “Almost all of them are reporting increased need, there’s just huge need with folks showing up at the mobile markets.”
Mobile markets started during the COVID-19 pandemic as a way to distribute food quickly and efficiently to people in need and have remained a popular offering due to the efficiency it offers both the organization and clients. They also allow 2nd Harvest and partner food banks to help people in areas that might not be near a food pantry.
While all of the Thanksgiving boxes have been distributed, the organization will continue hosting mobile markets throughout the holiday season.
Williams said they’re always in need of “food, funds and friends” to help fulfill their mission.
Food costs have increased by about 22% due to inflation, he said. That means monetary donations are more important than ever.
Williams said that anyone considering giving can also donate directly to their local food bank.
Employees from local Les Schwab Tire Centers were the “friends” on hand during Tuesday’s distribution, helping hand out boxes to families lined up down Columbia Park Trail.
Williams said they truly appreciate all of their volunteers, and can always use more.
To find a mobile market, visit https://2-harvest.org/food-near-me/ and click on “Food Near Me.” Registration may be required.
