Eastern Michigan University (EMU) is teaming up with local organizations to host the "Thankful For You" Drive-Thru giveaway, set to provide holiday meals for hundreds in need. EMU President James Smith emphasized the importance of the event, especially as the university commemorates its 175th anniversary in Ypsilanti. "My wife Connie and I couldn't imagine a better way to honor this milestone than by giving back to the community we call home," he said in a statement given to CBS News Detroit. The event, designed to fill 500 cars with free holiday food staples including turkeys, hams, and pies, will occur from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. this Thursday at the George Gervin GameAbove Center.
Addressing food insecurity, President Smith told WEMU, "We have students that are fairly food secure until one month that they aren’t; take advantage of what’s out there for you." He further pointed out the evolution of "Thankful For You" from a community dinner event to a food giveaway, expressing hope that it motivates EMU students and the local community to support families in need in the future. The program aims to provide an immediate solution to food scarcity during a time when families may find their situations suddenly changing.
Organizers hope to support enduring traditions and allow community members an opportunity to cook for and spend time with loved ones, as pointed out by Connie Ruhl-Smith in an article from Second Wave Media. The event's reach extends beyond a single meal, with 20 boxes set aside for delivery to families involved with EMU's Children's Institute. The Drive-Thru is scheduled for Thursday at EMU, with Ruhl-Smith advising attendees to line up early based on previous years' experiences.
In addition to the support from community foundations, EMU's Credit Union, and corporate sponsor Meijer, James Smith and Ruhl-Smith are personally backing the effort to provide more comprehensive meal boxes than in past years, including canned goods and fresh produce. "We see this event as part of a big web of influence, and not just a one-off," President Smith expressed, in an article from Second Wave Media. With a goal of feeding about 500 families, roughly 15,000 pounds of food is prepared for distribution. The event embodies EMU's commitment to the local community, hoping to double the amount of families served compared to the previous year, and set the standard for community engagement and support. Last year, the giveaway fed around 250 families, officials say, and this year's preparations are in full swing to exceed that number and ensure the holidays are a little brighter for many Ypsilanti residents.
