Feelings of gratitude and community were abundant in Wallis last week as locals banded together to provide Thanksgiving meals to families in need. With the help of about a dozen volunteers, the Helping Hands of Wallis successfully hosted its inaugural Thanksgiving Community Food Drive and Giveaway.

The organization was comprised of roughly 12 volunteers from the community and was able to provide meals for 20 families in Wallis and the surrounding areas. Volunteers from the Helping Hands of Wallis estimated that over $1,000 worth of food was collected for the giveaway.

Each box contained several ingredients necessary for a traditional Thanksgiving meal including a bag of potatoes, corn, carrots, stuffing, chicken/turkey, eggs, butter, cookies and more.

Police officers, boy scouts and several other volunteers collected donations, created an application for those in need, organized the items into boxes and delivered the items directly to individuals’ homes in time for families to start preparing their feasts.

Amongst the volunteers who helped organize the event were Joell Prado and her sons Christopher and Dayton, who helped deliver the boxes of ingredients to recipients on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, Nov. 24.

“I truly just do this because it’s what you’re supposed to do,” said Joell Prado as she packed boxes. “Get to know your neighbor, say hi. Lend a helping hand. It truly does take a village to raise a family. I am super blessed to have an amazing village and I just want to give back.”

Many of the volunteers explained that helping others in their community enjoy a Thanksgiving feast was extremely fulfilling.

“We like to give back to our communities and do what we can,” said Christopher Prado. “I have a big heart. God put me on this earth for a purpose and I’m fulfilling my purpose.”

With the Thanksgiving Community Food Drive and Giveaway being such a success, the organization is looking to provide a similar service around Christmas this year. Those who are interested in receiving more information about receiving meals or volunteering are encouraged to reach out to joellprado08@gmail.com.