FORT WAYNE, Ind. – The Franciscan Center is rallying the community to supply 610 Thanksgiving turkeys for families in need as it prepares for its 27th annual Turkey Tuesday distribution on November 24. The nonprofit asks for frozen turkey donations or monetary contributions of $17, the average cost of a turkey for a family.
How the donation drive works
Donors can give online at thefranciscancenter.org/support-us or drop off frozen turkeys at any of the Center’s locations: the main office at 1015 E. Maple Grove Avenue, the Southwest Family Thrift Store at 6145 W. Jefferson Boulevard, or the Coldwater Road thrift store at 4430 Coldwater Road. Mail‑in donations are also accepted at the main office address with “Turkey” noted on the memo line.
Volunteer support and community involvement
Volunteers from local radio station STAR 88.3, including station president Melissa Montana, and members of the Lakewood Park Christian School girls’ basketball team will help hand out coffee, hot chocolate and words of encouragement to families waiting in line. Many families begin lining up before sunrise to receive their turkey, underscoring the event’s importance to the southeast side of Fort Wayne.
Why the need is growing
Executive Director Tony Ley noted that rising food costs are putting additional pressure on local households. “Our building may have been damaged, but our mission has not,” Ley said, referencing recent damage to the Center’s State Street thrift store after a vehicle crash. He added, “Every turkey donated represents hope, generosity, and a reminder that our community cares.”
About the Franciscan Center
Now in its 37th year, the Franciscan Center provides food, clothing and other essential assistance to more than 70,000 families annually throughout the greater Fort Wayne area. The organization relies on the generosity of individuals, businesses, churches, schools and community groups to meet the growing demand for basic necessities.
How to help
Those wishing to contribute can do so before November 24. In addition to turkeys, monetary gifts of $17 help cover the cost of a turkey for a family in need. The Center encourages all residents to consider supporting the effort, whether through a direct donation, volunteering time, or spreading the word to friends and neighbors.
For more information, visit the Franciscan Center’s website or call the main office during business hours.
Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.
