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Volunteers Needed for 10th Annual Holiday Meal Delivery Across Cumberland County

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – As Thanksgiving approaches, Operation Turkey Fayetteville is preparing for its 10th year of delivering hot meals to neighbors in need, though organizers note this year’s goal has been scaled back to 6,000 meals due to rising food costs.

The local chapter, which previously aimed to serve 10,000 meals, will continue its tradition of providing complete Thanksgiving dinners to families and individuals throughout Cumberland County. While meal delivery will focus on designated zip codes, residents may also pick up meals directly at the main location on Thanksgiving Day.

Lead Volunteer Coordinator Venassia Gunter, who has led the local effort since 2015, emphasizes the personal connection that drives the annual initiative. “The one thing that inspires me and my family is the fact that we all are one paycheck away from being homeless ourselves,” Gunter said. “Our community is our family.”

The volunteer-powered organization needs community support now more than ever. Volunteers of all ages and abilities are needed for various tasks leading up to Thanksgiving, including fundraising, food preparation, and logistics. The main event takes place on Thanksgiving morning, with teams forming assembly lines to plate and deliver meals throughout the community.

How to Participate:

  • Volunteer: Register online at operationturkey.com/volunteer/
  • Request a Meal: Submit requests at operationturkey.com/meal-requests/ or email meals@operationturkey.com
  • Donate: Sponsor a family at operationturkey.com/make-a-donation/

The main operation center is located at the Fayetteville Chapter, 82nd Airborne Division Association building at 606 Johnson Street. The organization is also partnering with local churches to provide additional pickup locations for those with transportation challenges.

“Anyone can volunteer no matter the age or disability. Bring the whole family!” Gunter encourages. “Over the years, people have made it a tradition to bring their entire family out to volunteer.”

To join this Cumberland County tradition and help ensure no neighbor goes hungry this Thanksgiving, visit Operation Turkey’s website or contact Venassia Gunter at (682) 226-2724. For more local community news and events, visit ccnc.news.