United Way of Western Connecticut is hosting its annual Pay it Forward campaign to provide fully cooked Thanksgiving meals, prepared by The Amber Room Colonnade, to more than 60 families living paycheck-to-paycheck in Greater Danbury.
The annual Pay-It-Forward Campaign is one of many efforts by United Way of Western Connecticut to address food security in Danbury. The Amber Room will prepare traditional Thanksgiving meals―complete with a turkey, side dishes, and dessert―for ALICE® (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) families to receive ahead of Thanksgiving Day.
Isabel Almeida, President of United Way of Western Connecticut, recognizes the need for this campaign in Danbury. “This time of year is difficult for many due to the extra financial strain that comes with the holidays and colder months. Pay-It-Forward allows our donors to provide comfort and hope to countless families. If you’re looking to make an impact this holiday season, please consider giving the gift of a complete Thanksgiving meal.”
This season marks the third year that both Danbury-based organizations have partnered to meet the needs of their community during the holidays. This year, there is a goal to raise $18,000 to support families living paycheck-to-paycheck. Benefitting households will be identified through Danbury Public Schools.
Doug Polistena, General Manager of the Amber Room Colonnade, expressed his excitement for the annual event, saying “The Amber Room is proud to partner with United Way of Western Connecticut for a third time this Thanksgiving. Each year, this event highlights our community’s generosity and shows us how we are able to make a difference in the lives of our neighbors. I urge everyone to get involved, make a gift, and help make Thanksgiving a little bit better for a family.”
Contributions in any amount to Pay-It-Forward can be made at www.uwwesternct.org/thanksgivingpayitforward and will go directly toward the purchase of Thanksgiving dinners for families in need. For more information, contact Ebony Jeffress, Events and Volunteer Manager, at ebony.jeffress@uwwesternct.org or call 203-617-0024.