Hunger Task Force volunteers stuff bins with Thanksgiving food for the needy

MILWAUKEE -- The Hunger Task Force is set to feed nearly 1,000 families during the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. Officials say this year, they are seeing some of the highest numbers of needy families in some time.

Volunteers at the Hunger Task Force packed 800 holiday bins on Sunday morning, November 18th. Vans from Milwaukee-area churches and pantries picked them up to be delivered to those in need.

"We're happy to be able to help them out and make sure they're able to get a healthy meal. We're seeing a lot of single mothers as well as a lot of elderly people who have to decide how they're going to make groceries (last) or stretch food stamps," Audrey Wilson with the Jeremiah Missionary Baptist Church said.

Sherri Tussler, the director of the Hunger Task Force says in October alone, the numbers of those doing without in the Milwaukee area were shocking.

"45,000 individuals visited food pantries and our homeless shelters served more than 65,000 meals last month," Tussler said.

The Hunger Task Force was able to put together Thanksgiving baskets thanks to generous donations. Tussler says it's something that is much appreciated and valued by those receiving the baskets.

"People cry. They are so excited and they think people are being so generous to them. They know they're not going to only have dinner for Thanksgiving, but it's almost, in terms of leftovers and additional food items for an entire week," Tussler said.

For those interested in making a donation, there is still time to get involved. The Hunger Task Force is still taking Thanksgiving donations and is also looking forward to Christmas.

CLICK HERE for additional information on the Hunger Task Force of Milwaukee, or to make a donation.