Mount Rainier, MD - As part of its ongoing commitment to supporting residents facing financial challenges this Thanksgiving, the City of Mount Rainier is set to distribute more than 500 food baskets on Tuesday, November 21, at the Mount Rainier Police Department.

The annual distribution program supports community members in need, fostering a sense of unity during the holiday season. Dedicated volunteers and city staff will start packing the baskets as early as 7 a.m., highlighting the collaborative effort involved in making this initiative a success. Each basket contains turkey or ham, pie, vegetables, and other non-perishable items that will complete a traditional Thanksgiving feast.

Mayor Celina Benitez who is leading the program emphasizes the community's role in the program, "Our residents embody the true spirit of giving, and this program reflects the heart of Mount Rainier. It's about neighbors helping neighbors, and I am grateful for the tireless efforts of our volunteers and the support we receive from the community to make this initiative a success year after year."

The distribution extends beyond the Police Department, with hundreds of baskets finding their way to local schools and the senior community, ensuring that more residents can benefit from the program. Funded through the American Rescue Plan Act, the Thanksgiving Basket Distribution Program reflects the city's commitment to utilizing available resources to support its residents.