GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — With Thanksgiving just over a week away, organizers with Mel Trotter Ministries are preparing for their annual holiday event—the Turkey Drop.
Each year, Mel Trotter aims to collect thousands of frozen turkeys to distribute to families in need for Thanksgiving. This year's goal is to collect 5,000 turkeys.
Those interested in contributing can drop off their turkeys at six locations across West Michigan from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday.
Pam Liggett, director of development with Mel Trotter Ministries, said the tradition makes a big difference for families.
"Food is about twice the price as it was a few years ago, so a Thanksgiving meal is just incredibly expensive," she said. "So we're trying to help relieve a little bit of that burden by providing the frozen turkey."
You can drop off turkeys at the following locations:
- Celebration! Cinema Grand Rapids North & IMAX
2121 Celebration Dr NE Suite 600, Grand Rapids, MI 49525 - Celebration! Cinema Grand Rapids South
1506 Eastport Dr, Grand Rapids, MI 49508 - Mel Trotter Ministries Downtown Location
225 Commerce Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 - MTM Thrift Store – Jenison
7500 Cottonwood Dr, Jenison, MI 49428 - Gateway Mission Men’s Center
166 S River Ave, Holland, MI 49423 - Muskegon Rescue Mission’s Men’s Shelter
400 W Laketon Ave, Muskegon, MI 49441
"The need is greater than ever," Liggett said. "We're seeing guests stay in our shelter longer, so we know that the need is out there and this is a way that we can help bridge the gap a little bit for families."
The turkeys will be distributed to families through Feeding America.
If you're not able to drop off a frozen turkey but still want to help, you can donate to Mel Trotter Ministries. The donations will be used to buy additional turkeys. You can donate and find more information about the Turkey Drop here.