As Thanksgiving approaches, Nevada Outreach is once again stepping up to ensure local families have what they need for the holiday season. While resources are limited, the organization is doing its best to provide complete turkey dinners and shelf-stable food to those in need — and they’re asking the community to lend a helping hand.
According to Executive Director Kathie McKenna, Nevada Outreach receives a few full Thanksgiving meal donations each year, but demand always exceeds supply. “We do get a few full turkey dinner donations that we hand out,” she said. “Of course, we can always use more.”
Anyone interested in donating a complete meal can contact Gwen Jarnesky at gjarnesky@nevadaoutreach.org or call 775-751-1118 ext. 105. Donors are encouraged to include items such as a turkey, mashed potatoes (boxed or fresh), vegetables like green beans or corn, cranberry sauce, stuffing (boxed or bagged), canned gravy, rolls, butter, and a pumpkin pie. Donations are typically uncooked, with delivery arrangements coordinated so meals can reach families the same day. However, those wishing to donate a precooked meal for smaller households can do so the day before Thanksgiving.
In addition to holiday meals, Nevada Outreach is working to strengthen its supply of shelf-stable foods. “We try to keep shelf-stable food, trying to beef up more with the SNAP benefits debacle,” McKenna said. “All help there is appreciated.” Donations of non-perishable food, baby formula, and baby food can be dropped off directly at the Nevada Outreach office, located at 621 S Blagg Rd.
While the organization already has a list of families awaiting Thanksgiving support, anyone in need of food assistance can still visit the office for help. “If they need assistance, just come to the office,” McKenna noted. “That is truly where we pull our list from.”
Community members wishing to donate or learn more about Nevada Outreach’s Thanksgiving efforts can reach out directly or stop by the office. Every contribution — big or small — helps make the season brighter for local families in need.
