CAIRO, Ill. (WSIL)� The holiday season just got brighter for families in Cairo, as a partnership between Arrowleaf and Illinois State Comptroller Susana Mendoza provided free Thanksgiving meals to residents in need.
More than 100 people gathered at Arrowleaf today, each leaving with a turkey and all the trimmings for a complete holiday feast. In addition to the meal distribution, organizers also provided coats and shoes for children, ensuring that families are not only fed but also warm this season.
Comptroller Mendoza, who joined her staff in Cairo to personally distribute meals, emphasized the spirit behind the event.
“Here in Cairo, everyone who came today knows that there are people across the state � including the comptroller � who love them, are thinking about them, and want them to have a wonderful holiday season,� Mendoza said.
The event, now in its eighth year, highlights collaboration. Arrowleaf, a community-focused organization, worked alongside the comptroller’s office to bring this initiative to life.
Marsha Hayes, Arrowleaf’s Community Engagement Assistant Director, explained, "The comptroller wanted to help cairo.. to do something for it.. and seeing as we have our office here and that's what we do.. help the people of Cairo-- we decided to. They were going to provide the turkeys and we were going to provide the man power and the location and it worked out quite well.�
There were 150 turkeys and fixings distributed. Illinois Senator Dale Fowler and Cairo Mayor Thomas Simpson, helped give out these much-needed items.
As families prepare to gather around their Thanksgiving tables, this event serves as a reminder of the power of community and the importance of giving back.
