Catholic Charities Feeds Hundreds this Thanksgiving
Catholic Charities Food Pantry, in partnership with St. Pius X parish in Urbandale, IA, distributed 660 turkeys and other holiday meats during their annual Giving Thanks Giving event, a 14 percent increase from 2023. The 2024 event took place on, Wednesday, November 20 and Thursday, November 21. St. Pius X, a long-time partner of this event, generously donated 300 turkeys this year.
For close to 30 years, Giving Thanks Giving has helped Catholic Charities Food Pantry clients celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday. During these distribution days, clients received a turkey or other holiday meat along with sides including bread, vegetables, potatoes, milk and a dessert. This is in addition to the monthly food box clients already receive.
“We are pleased to have served so many individuals and families at this year’s Giving Thanks Giving event,” said Catholic Charities Executive Director, Mike Sheehy. “As a member of St. Pius X parish, it was great to see the immense impact this event has on so many in our community.”
In addition to St. Pius X, food for this event was also provided in partnership through the Des Moines Area Religious Council (DMARC) and Food Bank of Iowa. Financial contributions from other Catholic Charities donors also contributed to the event’s success.
“St. Pius X continues to be a strong partner of ours and we are extremely grateful for their unwavering support that makes this event successful,” said Tom Leto, Catholic Charities Food Pantry program manager. “We are also grateful for our many community partners who allow us to support clients who are in need of a little extra help this holiday season.”
The Catholic Charities Food Pantry has seen a great increase in clients coming to the food pantry in need of help. Last month, the food pantry provided more than 1,000 monthly three-day emergency food boxes supporting 2,650 people. The pantry also averages between 600 and 700 daily meal bags which are handed out to whoever is in need.
“It has been a challenge to keep up with the rising demand but we will continue to do all that we can to feed and support all who come to us,” said Leto.
In addition to food, the pantry also provides diapers, baby wipes, baby formula and personal hygiene products to clients. Those wishing to support the work done at the Catholic Charities Food Pantry can donate online at catholiccharitiesdm.org/donate or shop the pantry’s Amazon Wish List.
The Catholic Charities Food Pantry is located at 1815 E. Hubbell Ave., Des Moines, IA, operating Monday – Thursday, 10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. and Friday, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
