Members of the First United Methodist Church in Grand Junction, Colorado, gathered turkeys, hams, and canned goods to support local food banks in a heartfelt annual event. This Thanksgiving tradition, running for over a decade, helps families facing tough times in Mesa County just as the holiday season kicks off.
The Drive’s Roots and Purpose
The food drive stems from a deep commitment to community support at the First United Methodist Church. Organizers aimed to ease food insecurity, especially after recent challenges like the federal government shutdown that delayed SNAP benefits for many.
Church leaders stress that small acts make a big difference. They collected donations over the weekend to ensure no family goes without a proper meal. This effort builds on years of similar drives that have strengthened ties between the church and local residents.
What Was Collected and How It Helps
Volunteers filled two large coolers with hams and turkeys, plus several boxes of non perishable items like canned vegetables and soups. Every bit goes straight to the Community Food Bank in Grand Junction, which fights hunger across Mesa County.
The donations arrive at a key time. With Thanksgiving on November 27, these items will help stock shelves for those in need. The food bank plans to distribute them quickly to reach as many households as possible.
Here is a breakdown of the collection:
- Turkeys and hams: Enough for dozens of families, filling two coolers.
- Canned goods: Boxes of vegetables, fruits, and proteins for balanced meals.
- Other non perishable items: Pastas, rice, and sauces to round out holiday dinners.
This variety ensures recipients get nutritious options beyond just the main course.
Voices from the Organizers
Anna Aleksa, the family ministry director, shared her joy at the community’s response. She noted the outpouring of love helps everyone involved, from donors to those receiving aid. Aleksa highlighted how the drive fosters unity during hard times.
Even with the government shutdown now over, recovery takes time for affected families. SNAP benefits for November started rolling out this week, but gaps left many scrambling. Aleksa believes events like this bridge those divides without needing grand gestures.
She added that serving others brings blessings to all sides. Simple help like providing food items lifts spirits and eases daily struggles.
Food Insecurity Challenges in Mesa County
Mesa County faces ongoing issues with hunger, affecting nearly 11,000 residents this year. Statewide, about 13 percent of Coloradans, or over 744,000 people, deal with food insecurity, including many children.
The recent shutdown worsened things by halting benefits for over 600,000 people across Colorado. Food banks saw lines grow as shelves emptied. Now, with funds flowing again, groups like the Community Food Bank work to catch up.
Local efforts include new spots like the 7th Street Community Cafe, opened by the food bank to offer affordable meals in food swamps. These steps address root causes beyond just holidays.
To show the scope, consider this table of key statistics:
| Category | Number Affected (2025) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mesa County Residents | 11,000 | Includes families hit by shutdown delays. |
| Colorado Total | 744,950 | 13% of population, per recent reports. |
| Children in Colorado | 172,540 | High risk during holidays. |
| Daily Meals Needed | 25,000 | From Food Bank of the Rockies efforts. |
These figures underline why drives like the church’s matter so much.
Similar Efforts Across Colorado
Colorado sees a wave of Thanksgiving drives this season, showing widespread community spirit. In Denver, the Rescue Mission hands out Banquet in a Box kits with full meals. Aurora packs boxes for local families on November 15.
Fort Collins churches collect for Serve 6.8, while Frederick’s Dinner in a Box program fills up fast. These events mirror Grand Junction’s push, all timed to beat holiday shortages.
Such initiatives not only provide food but also build lasting networks. They remind us that collective action turns challenges into opportunities for kindness.
As Thanksgiving nears, consider joining a local drive or donating to your food bank. Share your thoughts in the comments below and spread the word to help more families enjoy the holiday.
