United Way of Broward County's Mission United Successfully Distributes More Than 800 Meals During Annual Operation Turkey Dinner

adriana
Jan 5
3 min read

Benjamin Harris and Nikki Imbrascio with Veteran

On Wednesday, November 20, 2024, United Way of Broward County’s MISSION UNITED initiative hosted its annual Operation Turkey Dinner, distributing over 800 Thanksgiving meals to Veterans, Active Military, the National Guard, and Reserve Members residing in Broward County. The event, held at the United Way of Broward County’s Colker Center, ensured that local military families could enjoy a warm, festive holiday meal.

Volunteers from Universal Insurance

This annual drive-thru event provided pre-registered participants with meal kits containing everything needed for a Thanksgiving dinner for a family of four, including instant stuffing mix, mashed potatoes, cornbread mix, canned vegetables, pumpkin pie ingredients, and marshmallows. Each box also included a $25 grocery store gift card to assist families in completing their holiday preparations.

Military Veteran

“Operation Turkey Dinner is a testament to the power of community and gratitude,” said Kathleen Cannon,President/CEO of United Way of Broward County. “We are deeply committed to supporting our Veterans and military families who have given so much to our nation. Through MISSION UNITED and the generosity of our sponsors and volunteers, we were able to provide a small token of appreciation to ensure these families can celebrate the holiday with a traditional Thanksgiving meal.”

President/CEO of United Way of Broward County Kathleen Cannon and Vice President of UWBC's MISSION UNITED James Heaton

The event was made possible through the dedication of volunteers from United Way of Broward County’s MISSION UNITED and the generous support of sponsors, including JM Family Enterprises, 15th Street Fisheries, Nicklaus Children’s Health System, Provenance Health Advisors, Debbie’s Dream Foundation, Bank of America, Enhance Health, Maaco Foundation, and Fisk Electric Company. Their contributions ensured that Veterans and their families could enjoy a holiday meal together in the spirit of gratitude and togetherness.

Volunteer from Providence

"This is one of the most meaningful and largest events we host each year," said James Heaton, Vice President of MISSION UNITED at United Way of Broward County. "We are deeply honored to give back to the military community, who have given so much to our country, and help them celebrate Thanksgiving with their loved ones."

Tony Hopper, Gloria Ortiz, and Jedidiah Quinones

Gobbles The Turkey

MISSION UNITED is a vital initiative of United Way of Broward County that aligns public and private resources to assist U.S. military service members, Veterans, and their families in successfully transitioning to civilian life. The program provides comprehensive support in key areas such as employment services, education, health, legal assistance, financial stability, and housing support. For more information about MISSION UNITED or to learn how to access its programs and resources, please call 954-4-UNITED or visit www.MISSIONUNITEDbroward.org.

About United Way of Broward County

United Way of Broward County is a volunteer driven, community-based, non-profit organization serving Broward County for more than 85 years. United Way of Broward County fights for the Health, Education and Financial Prosperity of EVERY person in our community. United Way of Broward County is the catalyst for change and convener of partnerships that unite the hearts, minds, and resources within the Broward community. For more information, visit www.UnitedWayBroward.org.

About United Way of Broward County's MISSION UNITED

MISSION UNITED is a critical program supporting US military service members, Veterans and their families in Broward County by helping them acclimate to civilian life. Key focus areas include employment services, education, health, legal assistance, financial stability and housing support. Through MISSION UNITED, United Way of Broward County is aligning existing services and creating solutions where there are gaps in support. For more information about MISSION UNITED, please call 954-4-UNITED or visit www.MISSIONUNITEDbroward.org, Facebook or Twitter.