It has been several decades since the Summit Hill Sons of American Legion Post 316 began helping those in the community in need have a brighter Thanksgiving.

Over the years, the group has donated the funds to cover the cost of turkeys that are distributed by the Summit Hill Food Pantry, with that number increasing from a few dozen to approximately 100 families served.

Last week, the SALs again donated to the cause, giving $2,500 to help cover the cost for the birds this year.

“As of this year, with the $2,500, we’ve given $39,380 to the pantry for turkeys over the years,” said Joe Zubek, finance officer for the SALs.

“It’s a great feeling that we have the resources and the monetary ability to do this because of the fundraisers that we do throughout the year,” added Stanley Karnish, SALs commander. “The fact that we are able to donate to the food pantry every year is a great feeling for our SALs organization. We’re just glad to help the people out who need it at this time, especially right now with the economy.”

Zubek, who has been with the SALs for decades, said that the donation increased by $500 this year, because of the additional need and the higher prices for food items.

When the Thanksgiving program began in the 1990s, 55 families received food packages for Thanksgiving. But rising food costs, tough economic times, a pandemic and government shutdowns have pushed the number of families in need up.

Joyce Tirpak, administrator for the pantry, was thankful for the SALs continued support.

“It’s fantastic that we get to give a turkey to everyone that comes to the pantry,” she said, noting that this year, she is expecting about 100 families for the Thanksgiving distribution.

She added that the distribution will include a full Thanksgiving spread thanks to donations from the community, with Hope of Christ Church providing a large donation, as well as several other residents and groups providing significant monetary donations to help keep the shelves stocked.

The Summit Hill Food Pantry, a division of Shepherd House, is located inside the Heritage Center, located at 1 W. Hazard St., and is operated strictly by volunteers and through community donations.

“We have strong community support,” Tirpak said, thanking all the volunteers and donors who make the pantry possible.

She also recognized former pantry director Rose Marie Armon, who for so many years, spearheaded the operation at the pantry and made it what it is today.

All Summit Hill residents in need are welcome to call the pantry. The next distribution is from 10 a.m. to noon on Nov. 24.