Salvation Army prepares “to go” meals for thousands on Thanksgiving Day

ORLANDO, Fla. — The Salvation Army in Orlando has adjusted how it’s serving Thanksgiving dinner this year because of the pandemic.

Instead of its traditional sit-down dinner, the organization has been forced to pivot to a “grab and go” style event due to COVID-19 and social distancing guidelines.

On Thanksgiving Day, the Salvation Army plans to hand out 5,000 pre-packaged meals to people in need at its “HOPEsgiving.”

“More than other times in the past 27 years, this Thanksgiving tradition needs to continue to let those who are struggling know that they are not alone and that someone cares,” said Captain Ken Chapman, area commander of The Salvation Army Orlando.

On Tuesday, the Salvation Army also helped provide meals to Central Floridians when officials handed out 500 turkeys to local families.

Between the two events, the organization expects to feed approximately 13,000 people during the week of Thanksgiving.

The Salvation Army said more than 200 volunteers have assisted to safely prepare and distribute turkeys, food boxes, and meals.

Thursday’s event runs from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the organization’s Gymnasium, located at 440 West Colonial Drive in Orlando.

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