Kids and adults across Broward County schools spent Tuesday helping to set a Thanksgiving table for families in need.
Call it a “donation drive thru” as volunteers load each pausing car at Western High School in Davie with ten bags of groceries and a turkey.
"These are families that probably wouldn't have a very nice thanksgiving if it wasn't for what we're able to provide,” said social worker Jodi Samson
Heather Parker plans to cook thanksgiving dinner for her three kids – she is one of 2,400 families benefitting from donations collected across the county.
"A big help, a very big help,” said Parker.
Behind the scenes, Western's gymnasium looks more like a supply warehouse. Besides canned goods and pantry staple, the brown bags deliver something else.
“These are Thanksgiving wishes that the children have made all over the school and we're just putting them in the bags for the people when they open them up, give them a little bit of extra cheer,” said volunteer Sarah Mackenzie.
Volunteers spent hours packing bags before packing cars, while organizers have been passing out pantry goodies in the harvest drive for 24 years now. One Western High senior says bringing Thanksgiving cheer to others is contagious.
"I hope it gives family a smile on their face, I hope so,” said Emely Polanco. “We do it with the heart – it comes from my heart to do it. It's amazing."
Every family gets enough for thanksgiving dinner and groceries for a week.
