GALESBURG, Ill. — UPDATE:
In just two and a half hours, Hope Initiative gave all 43,000 pounds of frozen turkey to 435 cars.
At its longest, the line of cars stretched for 12 blocks.
It all came from a "bonus shipment" of surplus food. Organizer Vanessa Rekash said it's the second they've received; the first was a Coca-Cola shipment with dozens of pallets of Vitamin Water, Powerade and other products.
But the group doesn't just deal in frozen birds and sports drinks. Every month, they receive food, toiletries and household supplies from a nonprofit in Springfield, Missouri. Those are sorted by volunteers and given to local organizations and people in need.
"Our mission here is to give every single person dignity even when they need help," Rekash said.
Another coordinator, Deb Summers, said they hold giveaways every third Thursday for families. The contents of the boxes depend on what they receive from monthly shipments.
"Sometimes it's an extra goodie that you may not be able to afford," Rekash said. "And that is something special, the dignity that's given with, 'Hey, I actually have packet of crackers that I wouldn't be able to afford.'"
Their giveaways have no qualifications or income limits.
"You could make a lot of money, but you might have a lot of bills, and food prices are through the roof," Rekash said.
Rekash also said their system works for those who struggle to ask for help.
"We don't ask them any questions," Rekash said. "We just give them free stuff and they can drive away with dignity."
If you missed out on the free turkey, the next community distribution event is on May 16 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Their warehouse is located at 435 E. 3rd Street in Galesburg.
If you're part of a nonprofit and want to receive goods from Hope Initiative, email them at hopegalesburg@gmail.com.
To sign up as a volunteer, fill out this form to receive a schedule of volunteer times.
UPDATE:
Hope Initiative's Turkey Drive-Thru will not be held on Thursday, May 2, as previously planned. All 43,000 pounds of turkey have been given away.
ORIGINAL STORY
Hope Initiative in Galesburg is giving away 43,000 pounds of frozen turkey breasts with no strings attached.
The nonprofit organization is giving away 1,512 cases of Hormel turkey, each containing nine whole breasts and weighing roughly 25-30 pounds.
The Turkey Drive Thru is open to the public on Wednesday, May 1, from 12-4 p.m. The Hope Distribution Center is located at 435 E. 3rd Street, Galesburg. Organizers say to enter the drive from 3rd Street and to remain in your vehicle as workers load your vehicle.
According to a Facebook post, there will be no questions asked and unlimited turkey breasts per household. Walk-ups are welcome.
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