With Thanksgiving just around the corner, the Modesto Gospel Mission finds itself in a bit of a pickle—a turkey shortage! This year, they’re expecting a record number of guests at their annual holiday dinner, and they need hundreds of turkeys to make sure no family goes without a warm meal. Jason Conway, the mission’s CEO, explained that the community relies on these meals more than ever, especially as resources become tighter toward the end of the month.
To tackle the shortage, the mission plans to give away 250 turkeys this Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon on a first-come, first-served basis. It’s not just about filling stomachs; it’s also about providing warmth, as they’ll be giving out new coats for kids to prepare for the rainy season ahead. Herschel Prevatt, a dedicated volunteer, notes that the event is like one big family gathering, with joy radiating from the lines of diverse guests waiting for their turn.
As families come together for this special day, it’s heartwarming to see such community spirit thrive—even when turkeys are running low. Let’s rally together to help those in need, because no one should spend Thanksgiving without a bit of turkey (and a smile) on their plate!
About the Author
Andrew Johnson
Andrew Johnson is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.







