EMU Today

YPSILANTI — Eastern Michigan University is redefining the "drive-thru" concept with its upcoming “Thankful For You” Drive-Thru Giveaway, scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 21, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the George Gervin GameAbove Center, located at 799 N Hewitt Rd, in Ypsilanti. Now in its third year and building on last year's success, the event organizers distribute essential holiday meals to local families, offering support and gratitude to the Ypsilanti community ahead of the holiday season. This is a first-come, first-served event with one giveaway per car.

This year, event organizers have raised the bar to fill 500 cars with approximately 15,000 pounds of food, including turkeys, hams, pies, dinner rolls, and locally grown produce. EMU’s cheer team, mascot, and live DJ will welcome and entertain attendees, creating a festive and community-focused atmosphere.

“Thankful For You” is an extension of “Thank-Ful,” an annual national event spearheaded by Chartwells, the national food service management company behind the University’s EDining operation. Locally, the event is 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,” said 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 line with EMU's goal to support local businesses and celebrate community resilience, this year’s giveaway will feature ingredients sourced directly from local growers, small businesses, and large grocers, such as Meijer. 

“At Eastern, we’re committed to building a community where gratitude and giving back come first,” said Beth Smith, registered dietitian and director of community wellness & sustainability at Chartwells EMU. “Thanks to the generosity of EMU President James Smith and Connie Ruhl-Smith, the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, EMU Credit Union, and Meijer, the impact of this year’s ‘Thankful for You’ event will be greater than ever. “We’re excited to strengthen our campus connections, support local growers, and help over 500 families celebrate Thanksgiving.”

“We’re thrilled to partner with organizations like the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation and host an event that puts community first,” said EMU President James Smith. “With the support of our partners, our goal is to help offset some of the costs, so families can focus on what matters the most this holiday season.”

“The Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation is very appreciative of the countless ways Eastern Michigan University supports our community,” said Christopher Lemon, vice president for Community Investment at the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation. “Partnering with EMU to provide food for families during the holiday season was an ideal way for our two organizations to work together to bring immediate impact for those in need.” 

About Eastern Michigan University
Founded in 1849, EMU is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves nearly 13,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and its graduate school. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. Visit the University’s rankings and points of pride websites to learn more. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website. To stay up to date on University news, activities and announcements, visit EMU Today.