Military Veterans Receive Nearly 500 Thanksgiving Meals From United Way of Broward County

The nonprofit provides various services and resources such as employment assistance, education, health care, legal aid, financial stability, and housing support for veterans.

Broward County veterans, active military, National Guard and reservists were able to enjoy a Thanksgiving meal thanks to United Way of Broward County’s Mission United program. Nearly 500 meals were distributed at United Way of Broward County’s Colker Center in Fort Lauderdale. The event was organized as a gesture of gratitude towards Broward County’s veterans and active-duty military members as they celebrated Thanksgiving with their families.

Miami Dolphins player Blake Ferguson joined donors, volunteers, and staff as they distributed Thanksgiving meals. The meals were distributed “drive-thru” style in the United Way of Broward County parking lot. Each food box included stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, cornbread, and a $25 gift card to Publix.

The president/CEO of United Way of Broward County, Kathleen Cannon, along with James Heaton, the Senior Director of United Way of Broward County’s Mission United, and Maria Hernandez, the Chief Program Officer of United Way of Broward County, were present at the event to welcome guests and distribute the Thanksgiving meals.

“Each year, United Way of Broward County’s Mission United looks forward to this Thanksgiving dinner distribution as a way to say thank you to our Veterans, active military personnel and their families during the holiday season,” Cannon says. “We are grateful to the amazing community partners who make this event possible, as it truly takes a village to make an impact.” 

Sponsors included 15th Street Fisheries, Debbie’s Dream Foundation, Haber Law, JM Family Enterprises, JP Morgan Chase & CO., and We Florida Financial. 

(Photos courtesy of Downtown Photo) 

Photo cutline: Nelson Cruz, Jamie Hagar, Chase Bowman 

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