Riviera Beach, FL — November 25, 2024 — Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Palm Beach’s annual Thanksgiving Turkey Distribution, held on November 25, was a resounding success, providing 300 local families in need with holiday meals just in time for the season of gratitude.
Thanks to the generous support of several community partners and volunteers, the event ensured that families in need could celebrate Thanksgiving with a full meal. Catholic Charities distributed turkeys and food bags filled with essential items and traditional thanksgiving staples.
A Heartfelt Thanks to Donors and Partners
Catholic Charities would like to extend its heartfelt thanks to the following individuals and organizations for making this event possible:
- The St. Edward's Guild, a long-time donor to Catholic Charities, for their generous contribution to this year’s turkey drive. Their unwavering support continues to have a significant impact on families throughout the Diocese of Palm Beach. Special thanks to Guild Leadership, Julie Reveley and Julie Huff as well as St. Edward's Pastor, Rev. Glen Pothier.
- The Town of Palm Beach United Way, for awarding proceeds from their 16th annual Turkey Trot race, which funded a large portion of the food distribution efforts. The collaboration between local businesses, residents, and the United Way has made a tremendous difference in our community.
- Emmanuel Catholic Church, Pastor: Rev. Gaudioso C. Zamora, for donating additional food items that helped fill the food bags and ensure that each family received a well-rounded and nutritious meal for the holiday.
- St. Clare Catholic Church, Pastor: Rev. Nicholas Zrallack, for donating additional food items that helped fill the food bags, ensuring that each family received a well-rounded and nutritious meal for the holiday.
- Women of the Moose, for their donation of food and turkeys.
Volunteer Efforts Highlighted
A special thank you goes to the Gala Ladies Committee, whose dedicated volunteers helped prepare and distribute the turkeys and food bags on the day of the event. Their time and effort were invaluable in making the distribution process smooth and efficient, ensuring that each family received their holiday meal with care and dignity.
“We are deeply grateful for the support and dedication of our donors and volunteers,” said Ellen T. Wayne, Ed.D. CEO of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Palm Beach. “This event truly exemplifies the spirit of Thanksgiving and the power of community. Without the generosity of St. Edward's Guild, the Town of Palm Beach United Way, Emmanuel and St. Clare Catholic Churches, The Women of the Moose, and the Gala Ladies Committee, this event would not have been possible.”
A Community United in Service
In the spirit of Thanksgiving, the turkey distribution exemplifies Catholic Charities mission of serving people in need and creating hope in all stages of life. As the holiday season approaches, Catholic Charities will continue to offer support through various programs aimed at helping local families facing financial hardship, hunger, and other challenges.
“We are blessed to have such an incredible network of individuals, organizations, and churches who are committed to helping those less fortunate,” Wayne added. “It is heartwarming to witness so many people coming together to make a meaningful impact in our community.”
Looking Ahead
Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Palm Beach remains committed to meeting the needs of families throughout the Diocese, especially during the holidays. For more information on how you can contribute to future events or volunteer with Catholic Charities, please visit https://www.ccdpb.org/get-involved/.
