Pictured: The Awaken Food Pantry services families in need of support with the help of Wellen Park's Thanks 4 Giving Program.

The Rotary Club at Wellen Park, in collaboration with the Wellen Park Welcome Center, is excited to announce the return of the “Thanks 4 Giving” Thanksgiving service project. This initiative runs from October 1 through November 19, inviting community members to contribute to a meaningful cause. The centerpiece of the project is the Thanks 4 Giving Tree, which will be displayed at the Wellen Park Welcome Center, adorned with tags indicating various dollar amounts.

Participating is simple. Visitors can stop by the Welcome Center, choose a tag that represents a donation amount, and purchase a gift card from either Publix or Walmart that matches the selected value. After acquiring the gift card, donors can return it to the Welcome Center, where it will be collected for distribution.

On November 20, the Rotary Club will gather these gift cards to purchase complete Thanksgiving dinners. Each dinner will include a frozen turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, and all the traditional sides that make the holiday special. This initiative has had a significant impact in previous years; last year, it provided Thanksgiving meals to 100 families associated with the Awaken Food Pantry, a local organization dedicated to supporting those in need.

This year, the Rotary Club aims to expand its reach and provide meals for over 125 families. To achieve this ambitious goal, they are collaborating with multiple organizations to identify those most in need within the community. On November 21, the Awaken Food Pantry will collect the meals, ensuring they reach families who rely on their support.

The Thanks 4 Giving Tree is not just about food; it embodies the spirit of community and generosity. By participating, residents can help create a memorable Thanksgiving for many deserving neighbors. Whether it’s picking a tag or spreading the word about the project, every contribution counts.

Wellen Park Welcome Center, 12275 Mercado Dr, Venice, wellenpark.com.

Pictured: The Awaken Food Pantry services families in need of support with the help of Wellen Park's Thanks 4 Giving Program.