Thanksgiving may be the season of abundance, but for many Rhode Islanders, putting a holiday meal on the table feels out of reach this year. With grocery prices climbing and cuts to SNAP benefits leaving gaps in food security, thousands of families face a November without the comfort of a shared feast.
Farm Fresh Rhode Island wants to change that story. The nonprofit has launched its annual Thanksgiving Harvest Box program, offering the community a way to both stock their own kitchens and share a meal with neighbors in need. Each box brims with seasonal staples grown and crafted by local farms and food makers, including Brussels sprouts, butternut squash, sweet potatoes, onions, fresh herbs, and even a pouch of turkey rub. At $75, the box covers nearly everything but the bird, complete with a recipe guide to tie it all together.
“This holiday season, families across Rhode Island will be forced to make hard choices: between groceries, rent, and heating bills,” said Kellie Beretta, Assistant Director of Development at Farm Fresh RI. “A donated Harvest Box doesn’t just put food on the table. It gives families the dignity of a joyful holiday meal with their loved ones, and the comfort of knowing that their community cares.”
The program is built on a ripple effect of good. Every donated box feeds a household while also supporting the Rhode Island farmers and food producers who supply its contents. “It’s neighbors helping neighbors,” Beretta added. “When you donate a box or purchase one for your own meal, you’re supporting our entire local food community.”
Farm Fresh RI hopes to distribute 350 donated boxes this year, which will provide Thanksgiving meals for roughly 3,000 Rhode Islanders. Donations will be directed to food banks and hunger relief agencies statewide, with local businesses and community groups also stepping in to sponsor bulk orders. Orders close on Sunday, November 16, and boxes are expected to sell quickly. To reserve one or donate, visit FarmFreshRI.org.
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