CINCINNATI — This Thanksgiving, the rainy weather didn't stop a group of volunteers from working with Maslow’s Army to make the holiday extra special for families in need. 


What You Need To Know

  • Maslow’s Army and more than 30 volunteers delivered Thanksgiving meals to people in Cincinnati

  • Hugs From The Hills also delivered hygiene kits that were assemble by kids

  • An estimated 500 meals were delivered this Thanksgiving

  • By getting their children involved, parents hope to show why volunteering is important

Volunteer Brian Garry said the group’s goal is simple: To spread joy and help the less fortunate.

“This time of year is supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year, but for some people, it’s really the most lonely time of year,” Garry said. “So, we want to bring that holiday cheer to them.” 

Maslow’s Army, with the help of two local food trucks, is delivering warm Thanksgiving dinners to people all over greater Cincinnati. 

“Which just means a lot to them and means a lot to us to be able to bring them some sort of holiday cheer and wonderful meals because this food is top notch that they are going to be receiving,” he said.  

Volunteers like Emmy and Charlotte Owens said it’s a great way to start the holiday. 

“We are incredibly fortunate,” Emmy said. “This year has stunk in lots of different ways. But at the end of the day, we’re still healthy and have Thanksgiving food on our table and feel like it’s important to give back to those who don’t. And make sure we model the way for our children and younger generation.” 

On top of the Thanksgiving dinners, children from "Hugs From The Hills" assembled 1,000 hygiene kits to give away. 

Sarah Simon and her three kids are leading that effort. 

“This is our fifth year with this neighborhood service project. So, we started in our neighborhood,” Simon said. “We really wanted to come up with an opportunity for the kids to get involved in serving from soup to nuts. Building the kits, handing them out and seeing the impact.” 

When all the items were all rounded up, the cars began their delivery route. The kids were very excited to start passing things out, saying it brings them joy. 

“Because they don’t have much, and we need to help them get more to survive better,” youth volunteer Audrey Simon said.  

And for the seniors at Parkway Place, it means the world to know people care — especially when it comes from children.

“It means a lot to be able, especially with what we’re going through now with the virus and everything, for somebody to take the time to bring something to us, as seniors we are very grateful to have it," Parkway Place resident Jacqueline Barton said.

Maslow’s Army estimates 500 deliveries were made this Thanksgiving. To find out more about Maslow’s Army, visit their website: maslowsarmy.org.