Norristown officials participate in annual Thanksgiving Resource Fair

NORRISTOWN — An annual Thanksgiving Resource Fair netted 300 turkey donations on Tuesday, offering assistance to those in need and kicking off the start of the holiday season.

Along with 1,400 diapers, Thanksgiving meal kits and winter clothing were distributed to area residents Wednesday evening at the Norristown-based Oak Street Health.

The ninth annual event hosted by Norristown Municipal Council President Tom Lepera and State Rep. Greg Scott, D-54th Dist., had additional support from several local organizations, including Caring for Friends, Misfits Heroes Inc., the Norristown Fire Department, Norristown Men in Excellence, and Oak Street Health.

“Our Thanksgiving resource fair was about more than just providing meals,” Scott said in a statement issued Wednesday. “It was about coming together as a community to support those in need. It was apparent that our community has an unprecedented need for food and support, and I am honored to have been able to give back for the ninth year with Councilman Lepera and the other partners.”

“It’s always a pleasure to work alongside Rep. Scott, especially during the holiday season, to support our neighbors in need,” Lepera said in a statement, noting how the fair’s “continued demand highlights the great need in our community. I’m proud to be part of an event that not only provides meals but also connects families with vital resources to help them thrive.”

Participants also gained access to resources and information related to food assistance, health and housing, a spokesperson said.

“This is not a time to stand on the sidelines – we have to face this issue head-on and get in the game,” Scott said. “Events like this highlight the critical importance of coming together to support one another. While I’m grateful we could serve so many families, it’s clear that we must continue working toward long-term solutions to address hunger and ensure everyone has access to the resources they need.”

Additional partners, including Jefferson Einstein Montgomery Community Outreach Department also donated 100 turkeys, 28 boxes of diapers and “support kits,” according to Scott’s spokesperson. Magisterial District Judge Hakim Jones, who also serves as president of Norristown Men in Excellence, highlighted the importance of community-based events and productive relationships with legislators.

“Our organization has been hosting its annual turkey drive since 2012. We’re thankful for this year’s collaboration with Representative Scott’s office and several community partners. There’s nothing better than working together to assist those in need around the holiday season,” Jones said in a statement.

Constituents with questions or who are in need of assistance should call Scott’s office at 484-685-3494.