The Salvation Army’s annual turkey giveaway for families in need will go forward this year with just a few slight changes, the organization said.
Every year, the Salvation Army partners with Les Schwab to give away hundreds of turkeys. This year, they’ll be handing out 400 turkeys on Tuesday, November 24.
The giveaway will be held in the parking lot area of the Salvation Army Thrift Store in Medford, beginning at 9 a.m. Because of Oregon’s coronavirus “freeze,” it will be a drive-thru giveaway, and the Thrift Store itself will open at 11 a.m. to accommodate the line. There will be a socially distanced walk-up line for people without vehicles.
The Salvation Army and Toys for Tots have also teamed up to offer Christmas assistance for Jackson County families, available now through December 4 online here.
“We have also taken off some of our usual qualification restrictions to ensure we are able to assist all who have been impacted by the fires and COVID-19,” the Salvation Army said in a statement. “We have already received over 600 family applications. We are prepared to assist at a minimum of 9,000 Jackson County children with Christmas toys, clothing, and food.”
The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle campaign begins in Jackson County on Friday and ends on December 24. The organization is currently looking for volunteer bell-ringers for 25 locations, Monday through Saturday of each week. The goal for the 2020 campaign is to raise $160,000.
“Reaching this goal is vital so that the funds can support all The Salvation Army Jackson County programs including the Hope House transitional housing, Meal Program, Food Distributions, Senior Assistance and Christmas assistance,” the Salvation Army said. “This is our annual campaign that funds our programs and services throughout the year.”
