Schools, scouts, businesses, houses of worship, civic groups and individual donors can contribute food or organize drives to support the annual program. Families receive turkeys and the ingredients for a traditional Thanksgiving meal, with IFPN coordinating requests from enrolled households and other county agencies.
“Thanksgiving is always an important time for our community to come together, and this year, the need is great,” said Carolyn Lake, IFPN’s executive director.
The holiday schedule calls for donations by the first week of November, with distributions beginning November 1. For current donation needs and drop-off arrangements, contact the pantry network.
The holiday effort builds on the pantry network’s year-round work. In 2025, IFPN distributed more than 2.4 million pounds of food through its pantries and Mobile Network Partners.
Whether neighbors contribute individually or collect donations together, each effort helps put a holiday meal within reach for a local family.
To arrange a food drive and schedule a donation drop-off, contact Carol Stavraka at 973-538-8049, ext. 236.