Thanks to two local food banks, 122 North County homes will be serving turkey with all the trimmings this Thanksgiving.
The North Cluster Food Bank at Pine Grove United Methodist Church in Parkton handed out 68 boxes of food to needy families on Saturday, Nov. 19.
"We knew we'd have at least 50 boxes to give out, but our numbers were way up this year," said Joan Laufer, food bank coordinator, who said four new families just registered last month to receive free food.
She said each family received a turkey, 10 pounds of potatoes, sweet potatoes, vegetables, cranberry sauce and gravy mix. They also received bread, milk, eggs and margarine.
Laufer said the food bank also offered clients gently used clothing and Christmas decorations.
Hereford Food Bank at Hereford United Methodist Church distributed food for 54 families on Tuesday, Saturday, Nov. 22.
"We're giving out all the fixings for a Thanksgiving dinner," said food bank volunteer May Polley. Those meals included turkey, corn muffin mix, stuffing mix, instant mashed potatoes, all of the ingredients for string bean casserole, a pie and even Thanksgiving napkins.
Families also received eggs, juice, margarine and a selection of apples, cabbage, carrots, potatoes, bread and rolls.
Both Laufer and Polley thanked the North County community and businesses, especially Graul's Market in Hereford, for supporting their efforts.
Donations of food or money are still needed, since both nonprofit organizations will distribute Christmas dinners next month.
Families or individuals who may need assistance or those who want to donate can call Hereford United Methodist Church at 410-343-0660 or Pine Grove United Methodist Church at 410-343-0729.