Local nonprofit Casa Chirilagua is planning to keep with the spirit of Thanksgiving by distributing meals to those in need, but needs some public help for setup and distribution.
“We are distributing 500 meals for Thanksgiving on Wednesday, Nov. 25,” said the organization, which provides assistance in the Chirilagua and Arlandria neighborhood. “The setup will begin at 1:30 p.m. and the distribution will begin at 2:00 p.m.”
The 45th Annual Turkey Trot and Food Drive for ALIVE! started virtually on Saturday, and the nonprofit has set up food collection points all over the city through November 29.
“We have given away 1.1 million pounds of food since the pandemic began,” ALIVE! Executive Director Jennifer Ayers told ALXnow. “The food need continues to grow. The need is still there and we need all the food and financial support we can get to continue to do what we have to do.”
Nonprofits Hearts of Enpowerment and The Oasis Alliance has helped to makeover the homes for some local survivors of trauma and for Alexandria-based recovery program Friends of Guest House — an Alexandria reentry program for women leaving prison.
“Hearts of Empowerment contributed its fundraising capacity to raise over $4,500, supply furniture and building materials, as well as provide discounts at local hardware stores,” the organization said in a press release. “The group promoted the program to shelters and community centers to help identify individuals and families that could benefit from the service.”
Unlike many of his Latino neighbors in Arlandria, Realtor Brett Rice has had a solid year and is giving back in a big way. On Wednesday, Nov. 25, which is the day before Thanksgiving, Rice and Alexandria Restaurant Partners will give away 500 meals worth about $35,000 to the community.
“The pandemic hasn’t been bad for everyone, and people are buying second homes and vacationing, and I just want to do something that will help the community,” Rice told ALXnow.
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Alexandria has identified hundreds of families, older adults and kids with disabilities who are eligible to receive gifts in the Fund for Alexandria’s Child Holiday Sharing Program.
The deadline to send in gift cards and donations is November 13, and all contributions are tax-deductible.
ALIVE! is hosting three free food distributions this week in Alexandria, and the nonprofit is offering shelf stable groceries, produce and eggs for hungry families.
“In response to food insecurity caused by impacts of COVID-19, 1.6 million meals have been distributed throughout Alexandria since Mid-March,” the city said in a release. “To maintain contactless food distribution, residents are encouraged to drive through and remain in their cars. Walk-up customers should maintain six feet of physical distance, wear a face mask, and bring carts or reusable bags to carry food home.”
ALIVE! exceeded its fundraising goal for its first-ever virtual walkathon earlier this month, and came within striking distance of what the nonprofit usually raises for what has traditionally been an in-person event.
The StepALIVE! Walkathon exceeded its $60,000 goal by raising $69,690. Individuals or teams walked five miles at the leisure anytime between September 11-13, and for the first time the 39th annual event was held virtually. The event usually raises $80,000.
