Turkey, stuffing, potatoes, pumpkin pie– a never-ending feast of flavors that flood our mind when we think of the holiday of Thanksgiving. However, it is important to note the importance of the holiday. No matter what beliefs you have, or why you celebrate or not, this festive season is an important time to come together with your family, friends, and community and express gratitude.
Quynh Pham, a Sophomore at Palisade High School enjoys Thanksgiving and says, “I think it is really important around the holiday season to show that you care about the people around you and to be grateful for their presence. The holiday season makes you feel more of the need to be more aware and show gratitude.” This idea of expressing gratitude is a vital piece of this holiday season and one of the ways you can do so is by planning and preparing a meal for your family. As inflation has made a major impact in recent years, mealtime has become a stressor for many families. This year, turkey prices are expected to be lower due to a 2% increase in production, which is a relief for those planning their meals. In 2023, the average cost of a meal serving ten people was $61.17 , this year it is predicted to cost $56.93. However, the holiday is so much more than the food you eat and the things you try as P ham says, “Since my family has the day off for thanksgiving, my favorite part about the holiday is just being able to spend time with them all day.”
Last year, during this time, there were around 2,300 unhoused people in Grand Junction. Pham says, “Food drives are so important people I think are crucial and one of the prime elements to having a good holiday is having a good meal. So by being able to support that just a little bit is super important.” In the valley local organizations and community groups often organize events and provide resources to support those in need during the holiday season. Local food banks and shelters offer Thanksgiving meals or food baskets to ensure everyone has the opportunity to enjoy the holiday. This time is a time of giving. No matter what financial situation you or someone you know might be in, don’t forget to hold your family and friends close and tell them you love them. Happy Thanksgiving!
