TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV) – As Thanksgiving approaches, one former Big Bend educator is working to make sure families in need have a holiday feast.
Former teacher Kelly Vinson is organizing the third annual Blessing Basket drive, collecting baskets filled with everything needed for a traditional Thanksgiving meal, from side dishes and drinks to desserts and gift cards for turkey and dairy items.
“Some of our kids have not experienced a Thanksgiving feast,” Vinson said.
Last year, Vinson’s effort provided about 80 baskets for families at six local elementary schools. She worked with guidance counselors to identify families in need. This year, she’s expanding the project to serve families at all elementary schools in Leon County, aiming to collect 280 baskets.
Vinson is now a real estate agent and said it’s important to use her current platform to be a blessing to others.
“The kids are going to be out the week of Thanksgiving, and for a lot of those kids, the only meals they are getting are breakfast and lunch at school,” she said.
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Vinson emphasised that the need in the community has continued to grow.
“SNAP has been an issue. A year ago, when we decided we were going to do all these baskets, we had no idea that was going to be a crisis,” Vinson said. “And then you have all these federal employees who haven’t been paid. Before a mortgage, before a car payment, before paying your credit card, you need to eat.”
Donations can be dropped off at Keller Williams, located at 1520 Killearn Center Blvd, on November 17 and 18 between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. Organizers are also offering a $100 prize for the “best” basket.
Vinson says it’s all about giving back and ensuring families in the community can gather around the table this holiday season.
Click here for donation information.
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