EMU Today

YPSILANTI — Eastern Michigan University, in partnership with local organizations, embraced the spirit of the season by hosting the annual "Thankful for You" Drive-Thru Giveaway. This impactful event provided 540 families with Thanksgiving staples, like turkey, ham, and locally grown produce.

The event at the George Gervin GameAbove Center showcased the University’s commitment to community support during the holiday season. Over 50 volunteers cheerfully distributed more than 15,000 pounds of food to attendees.

For many attendees, the event offered vital relief during challenging times.

“Since Swoop’s Food Pantry has a first-come, first-served event this year, and my wife and I work, we can’t make that this year,” said Cody, a community member. “So, just being able to try and get food for my family means a lot and is worth the wait.”

Another attendee expressed gratitude, sharing how the giveaway alleviated financial strain. “I recently had open heart surgery, and my left leg was amputated, so this is going to help me out tremendously because I have no income coming in.”

This is the third year Eastern has hosted the Thankful event, which continues to evolve in scale and impact. Eastern hosted the “Thankful For You" Drive-Thru Giveaway event, sponsored by the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, James Smith and Connie Ruhl-Smith, Eastern Michigan University Credit Union, and Meijer. 

“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 E|Dining operation. 

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.