Ann Arbor Times

Eastern Michigan University (EMU) is preparing for its third annual "Thankful For You" Drive-Thru Giveaway, set to take place on Thursday, November 21, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the George Gervin GameAbove Center in Ypsilanti. The event aims to distribute essential holiday meals to local families, supporting the community as the holiday season approaches. This initiative operates on a first-come, first-served basis with one giveaway per car.

This year, organizers plan to fill 500 cars with around 15,000 pounds of food items such as turkeys, hams, pies, dinner rolls, and locally sourced produce. Attendees will be welcomed by EMU's cheer team and mascot while enjoying music from a live DJ.

The "Thankful For You" event is part of “Thank-Ful,” an annual national initiative led by Chartwells, the company behind EMU’s EDining operation. Locally sponsored by the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, James Smith and Connie Ruhl-Smith, Eastern Michigan University Credit Union, and Meijer.

“This year’s event holds special significance as Eastern celebrates its 175th anniversary in Ypsilanti,” stated EMU President James Smith. “My wife Connie and I couldn’t imagine a better way to honor this milestone than by giving back to the community we call home.”

In support of local businesses and community resilience, this year's giveaway includes ingredients from local growers and businesses like Meijer.

“At Eastern, we’re committed to building a community where gratitude and giving back come first,” said Beth Smith of Chartwells EMU. She acknowledged the contributions from various sponsors that enhance the impact of this year's event: “We’re excited to strengthen our campus connections...and help over 500 families celebrate Thanksgiving.”

“We’re thrilled to partner with organizations like the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation," added President Smith. "With our partners' support...families can focus on what matters most this holiday season.”

Christopher Lemon from the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation expressed appreciation for EMU's community efforts: “Partnering with EMU...was an ideal way for our two organizations to work together...for those in need.”

Founded in 1849 as Michigan's second oldest public university, EMU serves nearly 13,000 students across various disciplines through multiple colleges offering diverse programs.