Thanksgiving Preps: Union Gospel Volunteers Pack 400 Food Baskets

PORTLAND, OR – For hours on Saturday, dozens of volunteers gathered at the Union Gospel Mission for a a day of special Thanksgiving preparations. They packed hundreds of food baskets for families in need.

They spent the first two hours packing 400 baskets. Then they spent three hours distributing them.

Each basket contained enough food for a family of 4-6 people as well as a gift certificate for a turkey that they can redeem at a local grocery so that their meals will be complete.

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The work of he volunteers was greatly appreciated. Some commented that without the help that they might not be able to have a Thanksgiving.

"It means me having a Thanksgiving," said Anthony who did not give his last name. "Turkeys for lower income families is not something that is in reach sometimes.

"It's something I will always cherish."

Union Gospel Mission has been helping people in Portland since 1927.

Photos via Union Gospel Mission.