APACHE JUNCTION, AZ (AZFamily) — Thousands of families across the Valley relied on charities and churches for a hot Thanksgiving meal, but options are limited in rural communities.Genesis Project, a soup kitchen in Apache Junction, is the only free meal center in Pinal County and recently reopened its doors. Organizers and volunteers said they expected a higher turnout this Thanksgiving than in past years.“Where is your next meal coming from?” is a question many people can answer. For others, it’s...
APACHE JUNCTION, AZ (AZFamily) — Thousands of families across the Valley relied on charities and churches for a hot Thanksgiving meal, but options are limited in rural communities.
Genesis Project, a soup kitchen in Apache Junction, is the only free meal center in Pinal County and recently reopened its doors. Organizers and volunteers said they expected a higher turnout this Thanksgiving than in past years.
“Where is your next meal coming from?” is a question many people can answer. For others, it’s not so simple. Genesis Project’s four walls serve as a beacon of hope for those families, organizers said.
“We are kind of a desert out here. We’re the only soup kitchen in Pinal County, so there aren’t other options for a hot meal. A hot meal will not fix everything, but it creates community and relationships,” said Trinity Cole, executive director of Genesis Project.
Cole walked reporters through the facility as volunteers prepared for hundreds of visitors expected for the holiday.
“So we have all the pies ready for tomorrow. I’m expecting over 200 people through my line in 120 minutes. We’ll probably hit 400 tomorrow. It’s going to be the most traditional family Thanksgiving you can get in a soup kitchen,” Cole said.
Twenty-four turkeys were ready, with every side dish that organizers could provide. It’s a bigger feast than in previous years, Cole said.
“There’s just so much food insecurity. There was so much disruption with SNAP benefits, with a lot of different policies going into effect that are changing the way people receive benefits,” she said.
Each plate was personalized, Cole said. “The cranberry sauce is always portioned into a 2-ounce cup with a lid. I want everyone to feel seen,” she said.
While options may be limited and some families are at higher risk of going hungry, Cole and her team said their small space provides immense hope.
“I really say that it’s like a hug. I love to love on people,” she said.
Organizers said anyone in need of a hot meal is welcome; there are no ID or documentation requirements. Meals were served from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.
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