Mayor, Congresswoman distribute groceries at United Way Thanksgiving event at YMCA

  Mayor Gary Christenson and Congresswoman Katherine Clark distributed groceries to families at the Malden YMCA during the United Way of Massachusetts Bay and Merrimack Valley’s 23rd Annual Thanksgiving Project. The United Way is providing meals to 20,000 families across 24 distribution sites in 21 communities in Eastern Massachusetts. Packages of Thanksgiving meal essentials were distributed to families in need. Families received a reusable grocery bag filled with turkey stuffing, potatoes, cornbread, rice, black beans, canned peas, green beans, onions and canned corn. Families also received a disposable turkey pan and either a turkey or a grocery gift card in their bags to purchase a turkey, depending on the distribution site.

  Since 1999, the United Way has distributed Thanksgiving groceries to families in Greater Boston. As the region emerges from the pandemic, families continue to face economic challenges, including rising prices for essential items, including groceries. According to the American Farm Bureau’s annual survey, the average cost of Thanksgiving dinner this year is the highest on record, up 20% from last year.

  “I’m truly grateful to the United Way for ensuring that all enjoy a homecooked holiday meal with their families,” said Mayor Christenson.