CCHASM’s Annual Thanksgiving Program to Serve 3,500 Families This Fall

RICHMOND, VA – (Wednesday, August 20, 2025) – Chesterfield Colonial Heights Alliance for Social Ministry (CCHASM) is proud to host its annual Thanksgiving Program on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at the Chesterfield County Fairgrounds Exhibition Center. The program will serve more than 10,000 individuals across Chesterfield, Colonial Heights, Dinwiddie, Hopewell, Petersburg, and Prince George. Community members can find details about how to donate, volunteer, or host a food drive at cchasm.org/thanksgiving.

“We hear from families every year who say this meal made the holidays possible for them,” said Shelly Marin, CCHASM Executive Director. “When resources are tight or families are in crisis, traditions are often the first thing to go. This program helps keep something special on the table and reminds people that their community hasn’t forgotten them.”

The Thanksgiving Program is CCHASM’s signature event, named in memory of the nonprofit’s late founder, Mary Ann Weeks. It was designed to meet a basic need with care, consistency, and community.

Each of the 3,500 families served will receive a full bag of nonperishable food items and a $20 grocery store gift card to purchase a turkey or other protein. The program is made possible by a wide network of schools, churches, social service agencies, corporate sponsors, and volunteers. Several distribution options are offered, including a drive-thru pickup at the Chesterfield County Fairgrounds, home delivery for those without transportation, and pre-pickup through partner agencies and service providers.

CCHASM is currently seeking community support through $20 grocery gift cards (Kroger, Walmart, Food Lion, or similar), organized food drives, monetary donations, and volunteer help during packing and distribution. A full list of needed items, pledge forms, donation links, and volunteer registration is available at cchasm.org/thanksgiving.

For over 35 years, CCHASM has supported families facing hardship in Central Virginia. In 2024, CCHASM served more than 26,000 individuals through a network of 15 food pantries and emergency utility assistance programs. Learn more at cchasm.org.