MARTIN COUNTY, Fla (CBS12) — With Thanksgiving just days away, thousands of families in Martin County are getting a boost thanks to a holiday food effort led by the nonprofit Elev8Hope, with help from volunteers, businesses the Martin County Sheriff’s Office.
Four weeks ago, Elev8Hope leaders handed Students at Martin County schools an empty basket and challenged them to fill it for someone in need. On Wednesday, the results of that project lined the parking lot of Elev8Hope and filled transport trucks.
Elev8Hope’s student-led effort brings holiday meals to Martin County families. (WPEC)
According to organizers, Martin County School students put together more than 5,000 Thanksgiving baskets, packed with meal essentials for a traditional Thanksgiving meal. About 2,800 turkeys are being distributed, ultimately helping feed over 20,000 people this holiday season.
Sheriff John Budensiek tells CBS12 News he is grateful for all of the community support with the monetary and food donations for the project. Sheriff Budensiek blessed the baskets while his deputies, along with a great group of volunteers and local leaders assisted with the distribution and helped to load baskets into trucks.
Elev8Hope’s student-led effort brings holiday meals to Martin County families. (WPEC)
The baskets will be delivered to Martin County schools, where crisis social workers will distribute them to families, students or individuals in need. Organizers say the goal is simple: ensure every family in Martin County can enjoy a Thanksgiving meal.