Goodwill Industries Hosts Thanksgiving Event Providing Meals and Resources to Baltimore Community

Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake Hosts Thanksgiving Event

Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake is set to celebrate its 69th Annual Thanksgiving Dinner and Resource Fair on November 25 at the Baltimore Convention Center. This significant event aims to provide not just a warm Thanksgiving meal but also essential resources to over 2,000 residents in the Baltimore area.

A Day of Giving and Support

The gathering will kick off with the resource fair running from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., followed by the serving of a traditional turkey dinner from 11:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. More than 300 dedicated volunteers will join Goodwill staff in ensuring that attendees receive a fulfilling dining experience, complete with all the holiday trimmings.

Goodwill has recognized that while a warm meal addresses immediate hunger, additional support such as winter clothing, resume preparation assistance, and job training can foster long-term stability for individuals facing challenges in employment. Lisa Rusyniak, President and CEO of Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake, emphasized the importance of this event in providing guests not only with a meal but also with resources that can positively impact their futures.

Addressing Winter Needs

As colder weather sets in, Goodwill is calling for community support to gather winter clothing items including coats, hats, gloves, mittens, and scarves. This initiative aims to help individuals and families in need stay warm throughout the winter months. Residents are encouraged to donate these essential items, as well as contribute financial gifts, to support Goodwill's year-round job training and education services.

The Resource Fair: A Path to Independence

The resource fair will feature connections to various job training and placement services, alongside community organizations that offer employment support and other vital resources. This holistic approach allows participants to leave with practical tools and knowledge that can lead to employment opportunities and economic independence, long after the Thanksgiving holiday.

“The needs don’t take a holiday,” said Rusyniak. “Every guest deserves to leave with something substantial that extends beyond the day, whether that’s winter clothing or resources to help them secure a job.”

How to Participate

Admission to the Thanksgiving Dinner and Resource Fair is free, with tickets available at Goodwillches.org/Thanksgiving. Community organizations wishing to distribute tickets can fill out a Thanksgiving ticket form provided by Goodwill.

For those interested in supporting this event further, donations of winter clothing can be made directly to Goodwill, helping neighbors stay warm in the coming months. Financial contributions also assist in funding the various job training programs and educational services offered year-round.

For details on how to assist or get involved, visit Goodwillches.org/Thanksgiving.

About Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake

Founded in 1919, Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake has been a cornerstone in the nonprofit sector, dedicated to aiding individuals in overcoming barriers to employment. Its various programs and services are designed to provide comprehensive support, including career placement and education, aiming to foster a sense of community strength and resilience.

Through initiatives such as the Thanksgiving Dinner and Resource Fair, Goodwill continues to display its commitment to uplifting the Baltimore community, ensuring that no one has to face the holiday season alone.

For queries regarding media coverage, contact Jen Reed at On The Marc Media via phone at (508) 944-4884 or at [email protected].