Buffalo City Mission holds annual 'Turkey Express' Thanksgiving meal delivery program

475 volunteers delivered more than 5,500 meals to those in need across Western New York

Buffalo City Mission Press Release & Photos

On Thanksgiving, the Buffalo City Mission, in partnership with Wegmans Food Markets, held its annual “Turkey Express” meal delivery program. Taking place at the Alfiero Family Center of Hope and Promise, the event provided more than 5,500 Thanksgiving meals, surpassing last year's total by 500 meals. This underscores the agency’s continued response to addressing the needs of this community, including individuals and families facing food insecurity and crisis across Western New York. More than 475 volunteers participated, giving their time to help ensure every meal reached a neighbor in need.

Wegmans continued its long-standing support of “Turkey Express,” with a significant monetary gift and in-kind donations. Its team members also participated in “Turkey Express Meal Prep Night,” reinforcing Wegmans’ commitment to fighting hunger in WNY communities through donations and partnerships.

"Each year, ‘Turkey Express’ stands as a testament to the generosity and compassion of our donors and volunteers," Buffalo City Mission CEO Mark Jentsch said. "Their unwavering commitment embodies the spirit of Buffalo, members of the community coming together to serve one another, and reinforces the Buffalo City Mission’s position as a national example of excellence in serving unhoused and at-risk individuals with dignity and care."

"At Wegmans, we are honored to support this Thanksgiving dinner program, which brings warmth and hope to those in need,” said Michele Mehaffy, public and community relations manager of Wegmans Food Markets. “Thanks to the City Mission, ‘Turkey Express’ ensures that so many can be together with family and friends and have a place at the table during the holiday season."

“Turkey Express” began bright and early on Thanksgiving morning, with dedicated volunteers loading their vehicles with holiday meals complete with turkey and all the classic fixings. A total of 193 delivery teams fanned out across Western New York, bringing hearty Thanksgiving meals to thousands of underprivileged families, seniors and those in crisis across the region. From the heart of Buffalo to Lockport and all the way to Angola, these deliveries spread holiday warmth and kindness across the region.

"As expenses for food and housing continue to increase, we’re seeing more individuals and families turn to the Mission for help throughout the entire year," Buffalo City Mission Executive Director Marilyn Forcucci said. "During this season of giving, we encourage everyone to find a way to make an impact. Your support, whether through time, resources or donations, brings hope and stability to those in our community who need it most."

To learn more about the annual “Turkey Express,” or the upcoming “Hambone Express” for the Christmas season, visit buffalocitymission.org. To make a donation, visit the donation link online.

More about the Buffalo City Mission: The Buffalo City Mission, founded in 1917, is a nonprofit organization providing preventative, emergency, and transitional housing programs to thousands of people who are financially insecure and experiencing crisis and homelessness every year. The Mission includes the Alfiero Family Center of Hope and Promise and a Women's and Children’s Shelter (Cornerstone Manor) to serve the Western New York community. For more information, visit www.buffalocitymission.org; call 716-854-818; or follow on Facebook (www.facebook.com/BuffaloCityMission), Instagram (www.instagram.com/buffalocitymission/) or LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/company/buffalo-city-mission).