Catholic Charities expands holiday meal program footprint in time for Thanksgiving

With Thanksgiving just two weeks away, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Cleveland, once again will offer holiday meal opportunities across the eight counties in its service area – but with a different focus.

Instead of home-delivered and in-person meals on Thanksgiving Day, food will be available for individuals and families experiencing food insecurity with access to in-person hot meals at participating locations and holiday grocery items through special pantry distributions.

Eric Milkie, director of emergency assistance services for Catholic Charities, said this year's approach “prioritizes reaching more neighbors, maximizing resources and creating opportunities for fellowship and community connection.”

Supported by volunteers, donors and community partners, Milkie said the program “reflects Catholic Charities' commitment to ensuring that neighbors feel welcomed, nourished and supported during the holiday season.”

The traditional home-delivered and take-home prepared meals will no longer be offered on Thanksgiving Day. Instead, in-person Thanksgiving meals will be available at participating locations throughout the diocese. Click here for information on in-person meal locations, times, dates and any registration requirements. Those who need assistance accessing information or identifying available opportunities can call 800-860-7373 or their nearest Catholic Charities site. 

Volunteer opportunities for Thanksgiving are full. However, there are opportunities to support the meal program through the “Fill the Pantry” drive, 8 a.m. to noon on Nov. 25 at St. Augustine Hunger Center, 2346 W. 14thSt., Cleveland, or by making a financial gift. For more information, click here.

Suggested donations for the “Fill the Pantry” event are shelf-stable items, including canned products with pull tops for easy opening. Recommended items are soups and stews, canned vegetables (corn, green beans), pantry mixes (stuffing, pancakes), canned meats and fish packed in water, canned or dried beans and lentils, shelf-stable fruit cups or applesauce, pasta and crackers and shelf-stable milk (or non-dairy alternatives).

Also needed are bath towels, cleaning supplies including laundry and dish soaps, toilet cleaner, disinfectant, feminine hygiene products, toilet paper, paper towels, tissues, soap, shampoo, travel-size deodorant, toothbrushes, toothpaste, combs, hairbrushes and nail clippers.

Those unable to drop off donations on Nov. 25 can call 216-830-6426 to coordinate a time. Donations also are accepted throughout the year 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on weekdays.

“We are working to get people to our sites to enroll in the services we offer,” Milkie said, as Catholic Charities tries to expand its services to those in need. “We want to help them throughout the year, not just with holiday meals a few times per year,” he added.