Within minutes of posting an offer of free turkeys on social media, Michelle Turner received multiple responses.

The same happened for area residents Bernadette Confer and Brian Klusman.

The three were among those who decided to dig into their own pockets to help the community’s needy for Thanksgiving — and post their offers on social media.

And in all cases, their generosity has inspired others to do the same.

“After seeing everything going on with SNAP benefits, and seeing more posts than usual on social media regarding food pantries, my husband (Adam) and I decided we wanted to do something to help,” explained Turner, of Lake Hauto. “It’s no secret that people are struggling and everything is more expensive.”

The couple decided that they would buy turkeys — along with other items for a complete Thanksgiving meal.

“There are many people who are having trouble just affording the basics let alone a big family holiday meal,” Turner said.

She posted her plan on her personal Facebook page. She noted that she and Adam wanted to help five families and encouraged friends to help if possible.

“I didn’t really expect anyone to actually respond, but I am pleased to say that several friends and family immediately sent monetary donations and Kowalanek’s Kielbasy Shop (Shenandoah) reached out to offer to donate two rings of kielbasy and a pan of stuffing for each family,” Turner said.

She then visited the Tamaqua Area Forum to post the meal offers.

“Within minutes I began getting responses from families in need,” Turner said. “Thanks to our donations, we’re now able to donate turkey dinners to 11 families instead of the original 5 we had planned for.”

The donations even include eight side dishes and desserts.

“My husband and I have always taught our children to be grateful for what you have, and that there’s nothing wrong with asking for help,” Tuner said. “You never know what someone is going through.”

When the Times News reached out to Turner, she noted that she wasn’t expecting any kind of recognition.

“Truth be told, I didn’t think it was going to be that big of a deal — maybe it would be to those we’re helping, but I didn’t think anyone else would give it a second thought,” she said.

Another area woman, Confer, was perusing the Tamaqua Area Public Forum and read a post about Thanksgiving need.

“I said I would help the first five families who responded,” said Confer, of Hometown.

She offered to purchase an appropriate size turkey for each, along with side dishes.

“The response was swift,” Confer said.

Within minutes, she had requests from five families — or the equivalent of 45 people — who will receive turkeys, mashed potatoes, stuffing, gravy, rolls — and of course, cranberry sauce, all donated by Confer.

But her assistance didn’t end there. In her post, she asked others to consider following suit by writing, “I have the first five. If you can, help others!”

“At least 2 other people I know joined in to help,” Confer said.

Brian Klusman, Tamaqua, also posted an offer on the Tamaqua Area Public Forum.

“I helped a couple families in need last year and decided to do it again this year,” Klusman said.

He posted his offer, and just like Turner and Confer, he saw an immediate response.

“A friend and fellow business owner stepped in to help this year so between us we were able to feed 31 people,” he said.

Each family will receive a turkey, side dishes and desserts, Confer said.

I’ve had a fortune life and just want to give back,” he said.