BRODHEADSVILLE, Pa. — For 30 years, families in need in the West End area of Monroe County have been able to get all the fixings for a Thanksgiving dinner, thanks to Pleasant Valley Ecumenical Network (PVEN). And this year, that won't change.
"Thanksgiving is a whole extra day you have to feed your family. I know it's difficult for some people who are already having trouble feeding their family throughout the month. So, we're trying really hard to give you everything for that entire meal," said Colleen Walsh, the director of PVEN.
With rising costs, Walsh says the number of people in need has increased.
In addition to helping feed the hundreds of people who walk through the door, she's added more than 25 new families a month. With Thanksgiving approaching, higher prices aren't just impacting the people she serves but also those who donate.
"It is hard to kind of gear people into Thanksgiving. But it's also difficult with inflation and with the prices of food right now, that it's hard to afford extra for somebody else, and we understand that," said Walsh.
The organization runs on donations, and with more than 400 families to feed this Thanksgiving, they'll take any holiday staples they can get.
"Our big ask right now is turkeys. Turkeys and turkey breast are always helpful, so anything like that is wonderful, and any staple you eat on Thanksgiving, we're happy to take. So, stuffing, cranberry sauce, cornbread mix, we're trying our hardest to ensure we have everything for them," said Walsh.
To help PVEN put food on the table for a family this Thanksgiving, click here.