The Thanksgiving season is upon us! For many, that means turkey, stuffing and all the fixings! While many celebrate the holiday indulging, surrounded by family and friends—and, of course, playing some football—Thanksgiving can be challenging for those who are struggling. Far too many families are grappling with job losses, medical conditions and other challenges that make it hard to put food on the table year-round, let alone during this holiday season. Poverty unfortunately strikes people everywhere, including here in Manayunk near your The Isle apartment. However, those whose plates are overflowing can embrace the spirit of Thanksgiving this year by giving back to those in need.

Among the local organizations striving to lend a helping hand to those who are struggling is the Center at Journey’s Way, which provides a wide range of services for local older adults. Among its resources, the organization, a half-mile from your The Isle apartment, offers healthy, low-cost meals, nutritional education, food vouchers and transportation resources to help seniors shop for food and other necessities. Especially in a holiday season so focused on bountiful meals, the nutrition-focused resources that Center at Journey’s Way offers to elderly clients are essential to both their health and happiness.

So how can you help? There are several easy ways!

Volunteers are needed to drive clients to and from the supermarket, cook and distribute meals at the center and run classes and programs. Apart from its food services, the center stages a range of health and wellness workshops, art classes and trips, as well as offers counseling, legal assistance, housing resources and financial-management classes, supported by volunteers. Locals can also lend a helping hand with its Neighbor to Neighbor program, which matches volunteers with seniors in need of household help with chores or even just a visit from a friendly face.

While Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate, it can also provide the opportunity to give back to those in need.

Center at Journey’s Way

403 Rector St.

Philadelphia, PA 19128