Hunger Task Force ramps up turkey, produce distribution efforts ahead of Thanksgiving holiday

WEST MILWAUKEE, Wis. (CBS 58) -- While temperatures in the Milwaukee area felt more like summer, the season of giving is ramping up and Hunger Task Force boosted those efforts Thursday, Nov. 10.

Hunger Task Force (HTF) distributed about 1,000 turkeys as well as produce to area food pantries, soup kitchens and shelters ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday to help families in need.

"We have such a beautiful day to do such a wonderful thing," HTF director Sherrie Tussler told CBS 58.

Tussler praised HTF's operation to smoothly distribute the food.

"Our network of food pantries is served on a free and local basis which means all these turkeys are going out for free," Tussler said. "They know when to come they show up on time they got these beautiful vans and they get them loaded up and take them back to make sure they can thaw them in time for the holiday."

Hunger Task Force says it has kept up to meet the challenge of rising food prices, including the price of Thanksgiving staples like turkeys, and its impact on families.

"The turkey itself is symbolic of having a happy thanksgiving, and so It really is important for Hunger Task Force to meet that need by distributing turkeys, to our food pantries in need," Tussler said.

HTF doesn't go at it alone as they get support from corporate partners like Zurn Elkay Water Solutions which is matching turkey donations to Hunger Task Force, whether done online or in person. It also gets help from everyday people that help those most in need.

"With all the help that we can get from the community we can make sure that Milwaukee is free of hunger on Thanksgiving," Tussler said.

CBS 58 is once again working with the Hunger Task Force and the Milwaukee Brewers Community Foundation to make sure local families have a great Thanksgiving dinner this year.

This year's Drive-Thru Food Drive is set to take place on Friday, Nov. 18 from 5:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. at American Family Field. The first 300 cars that make a donation will receive a Brewers bobblehead, plus additional giveaway items while supplies last.

A donation of three or more frozen turkeys will receive a special Brewers bobblehead set.