United Way of Central Maryland Provides Columbia Families with Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is coming early to hundreds in Columbia.

On Tuesday, United Way of Central Maryland will deliver Thanksgiving dinner to 304 low-income families in Howard County, according to a statement from the organization.

The delivery is part of the United Way of Central Maryland’s annual “Harvest of Plenty” program, which provides boxes to preregistered families that include enough mashed potatoes, stuffing, canned goods, apples and sweet potatoes for a family of six. Each package also contains a 14-pound turkey, according to United Way.

In Howard County, there are more than 20,300 people who are food insecure, meaning that they lack consistent access to healthy, affordable food, according to United Way of Central Maryland.

“Every family should have the opportunity to gather around the table, build family memories and enjoy a nutritious meal on Thanksgiving,” according to a statement from the organization, which has provided the “Harvest of Plenty” to families during the holiday for more than 20 years.

The delivery to preregistered families in Columbia will take place from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday at St. John’s Baptist Church at 9055 Tamar Drive.

Also on Tuesday, Laurel families will receive boxes at the North Laurel Community Center from 4:30 to 6 p.m.

A total of 4,000 meal boxes will be distributed across the region through the program during the next week, United Way reports.