Spokane non-profit prepares record number of Thanksgiving meals for those in need

SPOKANE, Wash. — In the days leading up to Thanksgiving, Terry Powell and Larry Barringer spend their time over hot smokers, preparing what will become hundreds of Thanksgiving meals for Spokane residents who need them most.

The two are part of Neighbors Feeding Neighbors, a local organization that has been delivering meals to those in need every month for the past five years. This Thanksgiving, they’re taking on their biggest challenge yet.

“The most we ever done is about 250 in a day. We’re looking at doing more than closer to 400,” said Barringer.

For Powell, the work addresses a fundamental need that never disappears.

“Nobody needs to go hungry. Hungry don’t ever stop. It’s always there, it’s like a 24/7 job. You got to eat,” Powell said.

The timing of their expanded effort coincides with a period when many families face additional financial pressures. Barringer explained that holidays can be particularly difficult for some community members.

“On the holidays, there’s people that, you know, good chance they won’t have a good holiday meal. And so we’re trying to bridge that gap,” Barringer said.

But for Neighbors Feeding Neighbors, the initiative extends beyond simply providing turkey, stuffing and mashed potatoes. The organization views their work as a way to show care and connection within the community.

Powell described the emotional impact of their meal deliveries, noting the reactions from recipients.

“I was still smiling because of the smiles on people face. When they see it and they get the food, you know, they feel like somebody cares about them. I mean, that’s the object,” Powell said.

The organization has maintained its monthly meal delivery schedule consistently over the past five years, building relationships with recipients and understanding the ongoing nature of food insecurity in the Spokane area. Their Thanksgiving effort represents the culmination of their regular work, scaled up to meet holiday demand.

If you are interested in a free Thanksgiving meal, Neighbors Feeding Neighbors will distribute the turkey dinners on Sunday, Nov. 23, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Partners INW.