Turkeys needed for Christmas dinners

by Sharlene Irete

sirete@recordcourier.com

The walk-in refrigerator at the Carson Valley Community Food Closet was filled and emptied of food for Thanksgiving, and stands waiting to be filled again in time for Christmas.

"We need turkeys," said Food Closet Director Kathy Thompson. "Last year we helped 1,100 people for Thanksgiving and Christmas, and it will probably be close to that this year."

Even with the support of community donations, including efforts by the Douglas High School Block D Lettermen's Club, Thompson said she had to purchase more than 300 turkeys for Thanksgiving.

She recommends making donations early so she knows how many turkeys to order in time for food closet clients to receive their food on Dec. 21. Food closet clients have to register for food through Douglas County Social Services by Dec. 15 to receive their holiday food on Dec. 21.

Make donations of cash, turkeys and holiday food at the Carson Valley Community Food Closet, open 12:30 -4 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday at 1255 Waterloo Lane, Gardnerville, 782-3711.

Make cash donations to the food closet at Raley's checkout counters, through Scolari's Friendship Fund, or send to send Carson Valley Community Food Closet, P.O. Box 2911, Gardnerville, NV 89410.

Purchase food bags at local markets including Scolari's and Raley's.

Douglas County residents in need may sign up for Project Santa Claus during drop-in days: 1-4 p.m. Dec. 8, or 8:30-11 a.m. Dec. 9, at Douglas County Social Services, 1133 Spruce St., Minden. Application information available in the office or at 782-9825.