For the 47th year, the Commission on Economic Opportunity (CEO) is bringing neighbors, volunteers, donors and community partners together to make Thanksgiving possible for thousands of families across Luzerne and Wyoming Counties.
Through CEO’s annual Thanksgiving Project, approximately 9,000 families will receive everything they need to prepare a traditional Thanksgiving meal at home. Each family will receive a turkey along with stuffing, fresh potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, vegetables, fresh local apples and other holiday staples.
“For 47 years, this project has been about much more than providing food. It is about neighbors taking care of neighbors,” said Jennifer Warabak, CEO Executive Director. “Every box represents a family that will be able to sit down together and enjoy Thanksgiving without having to choose between a holiday meal and another household expense. We are incredibly grateful to the donors, volunteers, businesses and community organizations who make that possible year after year.”
The Thanksgiving Project has become one of CEO’s largest annual community efforts, requiring months of planning, thousands of volunteer hours and tremendous community support to purchase, collect, pack and distribute food throughout Luzerne and Wyoming Counties.
This year’s project also takes place as CEO celebrates its 60th anniversary of serving Northeast Pennsylvania. Since 1966, CEO has worked alongside individuals, families and community partners to strengthen communities and connect neighbors with food and other essential resources.
Registration for the 2026 Thanksgiving Project is now open and closes on Oct. 31. Families in Luzerne and Wyoming Counties who would like to receive Thanksgiving food may register online at ceopeoplehelpingpeople.org, in person at CEO offices or by calling 570-825-0968 or 570-455-4994.
“We are fortunate to live in a community where people continue to step forward for one another,” said Judge Joseph Carmody, CEO Board President. “The generosity behind this project — from financial contributions and food donations to the thousands of hours given by volunteers — makes it possible for 9,000 families to celebrate Thanksgiving around their own tables. That is truly People Helping People.”
Dining and Cooking