Northeast Community Fund Gives Out Thousands of Gratitude Baskets | Main stories

DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) – The Northeast Community Foundation has begun giving away Thanksgiving baskets.

In the days leading up to Thanksgiving, the Northeast Community Foundation will distribute 4,000 Thanksgiving baskets to families in need.

“It’s a big test,” said Josh Perkins, director of food distribution. “It takes a lot of hands and a lot of funding.”

After Judy Mason’s Thanksgiving Basket Project came to an end, the Northeast Community Foundation decided to step up and feed families for the holiday.

“Filling this gap feels right,” said Regan Dearing, president of the board of directors. “It’s a very large number and it’s a very difficult year for families, so we’re glad to see people come in and we can provide for them.”

The Northeast Community Fund relies on community donations to feed low-income families. Perkins told WAND News that while inflation and the cost of food affects families, it also affects the organization. This year, the NE Community Fund had to double its budget for gratitude baskets.

In addition, Perkins said supply chain issues caused some disruptions.

“Trying to find the items and have enough bulk to do it. We ended up having to go through the grocery store, which cost us a little more.”

Donations can be made through the organization’s website.

The Thanksgiving basket drive will be Nov. 15-18 from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Nov. 19 from 9 a.m. to noon, Nov. 21 and 22 from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and then Nov. 22 from 17.00 to 18.30

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