EASTON, Pa. — Easton’s 12th annual Turkey Giveaway has been set for Nov. 23, 2024, with over 300 birds available for those in need.
The festivities kick off at 9:30 that Saturday on the corner of Second and Northampton Streets, where Easton City Councilman Frank Pintabone and a team of volunteers will help dole out around 300 turkeys to individuals and families in need, “spreading holiday joy and ensuring that everyone can enjoy a delicious meal during the Thanksgiving season.”
For food-insecure individuals and families across the Lehigh Valley – and the rest of the country – Thanksgiving can be an especially trying time. Food insecurity is defined as the condition of not having access to sufficient food, or food of adequate quality, to meet one's basic needs as per the Oxford Dictionary.
According to the American Farm Bureau Federation’s 38th annual survey in 2023, the average cost of a Thanksgiving dinner for a family of 10 amounted to at least $61.17, with the bulk of the price going toward the centerpiece of the meal.
In 2023, the average price for a 16-pound turkey hovered around $27.35, the AFBF states. Prices have fluctuated since last year, though the bird still tends to be the biggest expense.
“I'm grateful; I'm blessed that I have the ability to do it. I'm blessed that I have the same people from 12 years ago helping me.”Easton City Councilmember elect, Frank Pintabone
Pintabone said the opportunity to provide people in need with such a staple for the holiday meal is extraordinary.
“I'm grateful; I'm blessed that I have the ability to do it. I'm blessed that I have the same people from 12 years ago helping me,” Pintabone said.
“I'm a little disappointed that there's still a need, such a high demand for turkeys, and it shows that we have a lot farther to go as a society to help our less fortunate. But I'm glad and thankful and blessed that I'm able to help out.”
While Pintabone said no more volunteers are needed for the event, he did encourage anyone interested in helping to reach out to him at fpintabone@easton-pa.org to get more information about making a contribution to the Pintabone Family Foundation.
The PFF can utilize any donations to purchase more turkeys, or even gifts for their upcoming Christmas giveaway, Pintabone said.
Guests are invited to swing by and engage with the community, but photos and videos are discouraged to respect the privacy of attendees.
