By Faye Bui
Food insecurity becomes increasingly pressing with supply chain issues and rising prices. This Thanksgiving, Family Service of Rhode Island (FSRI), with the help of East Commerce Solutions, Inc., is stepping up to make sure no family goes without a meal to share.
On Thursday, November 17, Family Service of Rhode Island staff and volunteers distributed 360 turkeys to clients, provided by East Commerce Solutions, Inc. just in time for Thanksgiving. CEO Margaret Holland Duff says the generosity of East Commerce Solutions, Inc. will make a happier Thanksgiving for many Rhode Island families in need.
East Commerce Solutions owner Ed Medeiros expressed how important family is to him and his desire to be part of organizations that are making a difference in the community.
“People talk about making a difference, but you can’t talk the talk if you don’t walk the walk – and Family Service of RI seems to be doing that,” said Medeiros.
East Commerce Solutions, Inc., for the 9th year, continues its tradition of providing Thanksgiving meals to families in need statewide. The Medeiros said, this year, they will be providing over 4,000 turkeys and sides to families through non-profit organizations, such as FSRI.
According to the Medeiros, the number of turkeys requests increases every year, which means more and more families are struggling and the need now is more than ever. This annual turkey run initially started with feeding 2,000 people and has grown to 30,000 people, said Ed Medeiros.
East Commerce Solutions, Inc. orders turkeys to fill the requests each year without a cap. “The number is what people need,” he said. “I have a habit of not being able to say no.”
To the Medeiros, money is not a barrier when it comes to the number of turkeys ordered because their top concern is that all families get a nice Thanksgiving dinner without financial burden.
To companies who are inspired and want to give back to their community, Medeiros offers this advice.
“Find a cause. If you’re a business and you’re doing well, share it.”
The Medeiros’ say they contribute to over 27 nonprofit organizations a year with the annual Turkey Drive being their one big gesture to the community. Giving back to the community doesn’t have to be a big grand gesture, said Ed Medeiros.
“The Thanksgiving Turkey Drive didn’t start that way. It became that way,” he said. “We can be infectious in a good way.”
