The beet

This Thanksgiving season, we’re proud to highlight an incredible effort that brought nourishing meals to families across five communities. Thanks to the leadership of Whitsons team member Cole Whaley, volunteers came together to prepare and donate uncooked Thanksgiving dinners for families in Fredericksburg, VA; Roanoke, VA; Richmond, VA; Easton, MD; and Springfield, MA.

Across these cities, teams assembled generous meal boxes filled with all the essentials—turkey and traditional sides—helping ensure 103 families could enjoy a complete Thanksgiving dinner at home. Cole traveled to each community over the course of five days, working alongside local volunteers to pack meals, meet families, and share warmth and support during the holiday season.

This effort was made possible through the partnership of local community members, including participants from Divine Nine organizations, whose collaboration helped extend our reach far beyond our Whitsons communities.

“It was a pleasure and an honor to be the conduit for such a wonderful gift. Seeing the smiles on the faces of the seniors we delivered to was the icing on the cake,” said Lisa Townes, President Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Upsilon Omega Chapter.

“I echo the thoughts of my sisters that it was indeed a pleasure to meet and work alongside you to serve those in the Fredericksburg community and beyond to ensure families in need are able to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday,” said Soror Glenda Brown of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Xi Upsilon Omega. “The families we served were beyond grateful and one family was brought to tears.”

We’re deeply grateful for everyone who contributed their time, energy, and heart to make this food donation initiative a reality. This is the true spirit of giving—coming together to uplift families and share the comfort of a holiday meal.