The Newburgh Armory Unity Center (NAUC) hosted its annual Thanksgiving Meal Distribution on Thursday, Nov. 21, providing over 800 families with the essentials for a traditional Thanksgiving dinner. The event, held from 4 to 7 p.m. while supplies lasted, aimed to ensure that local families could prepare a holiday meal at home.

Hours before the event’s start, families lined up outside the center, waiting for their opportunity to receive fresh food. Inside, participants were offered a choice of a fresh turkey or ham and invited to assemble personalized meal kits. The kits included holiday staples such as mashed potatoes, stuffing, green beans, and gravy, allowing families to customize their selections to match their tastes and traditions.

“This annual tradition embodies the spirit of the Newburgh Armory Unity Center,” said William Kaplan, founding chairman of NAUC. “By coming together to support one another, we’re creating a stronger, more compassionate Newburgh. Providing families with the essentials to share a holiday meal is a simple act that can have a profound impact.”

The event highlighted the power of collaboration, bringing together local organizations, nonprofits, businesses, and volunteers. Key supporters included the Kaplan Family Foundation, Cornerstone Family Healthcare, and Healthfirst. Volunteers from groups such as the U.S. Marine Corps, Dandelions Are Flowers Too (D.A.F.T.), Latinos Unidos of the Hudson Valley, and Ebenezer Baptist Church also contributed to the event’s success.

“We are honored to be part of this important tradition that brings hope and nourishment to families in our community,” said Lauren Naru, vice president of marketing and development at Cornerstone Family Healthcare. “It’s our pleasure to work alongside the Newburgh Armory Unity Center in making this season a little brighter for so many.”

For more information about the Newburgh Armory Unity Center and its programs, visit www.newburgharmory.org or follow them on social media.