Special to Iredell Free News

Fifth Street Ministries is once again asking for the community’s support to help make the holiday season special for its guests and for those in need in our community.

Between the meals served and food boxes distributed on Thanksgiving and Christmas, Fifth Street Ministries will serve approximately 650 meals. To do that, Fifth Street relies solely on the support of this community. Meal items to donate include uncooked turkeys, ham, stuffing, mashed potatoes, potato salad, corn, green beans, gravy, cranberry sauce, rolls and homemade desserts. Items may be dropped off any day of the week between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. or delivered through your favorite shopping app.

Fifth Street also needs about 80 volunteers to help with all holiday events, such as distributing food boxes, making crafts with the children, helping shoppers in the free toy store, cooking the meals and serving. We accept volunteers of any age with a guardian. Sign up information for volunteers can be found at www.fifthstreetministries.com under the Events” tab – 2021 Holiday Volunteers.

Finally, Fifth Street gives gifts to all residents as well as to community members in need. We serve men, women and children, from birth to age 17. This year, the gift lists are Amazon Wishlists, which can be found at www.fifthstreetministries.com under the Events tab – 2021 Holiday Gifts. Gifts may be shipped directly to Fifth Street or if bought locally may be dropped off at the shelter. We will accept new and unwrapped gifts. In addition to gifts, individuals are also provided donated gloves, scarves, hats and socks (200 each).

Registration Deadlines

♦ Individuals/Families must register for Thanksgiving food boxes by Friday, November 19.

♦ Individuals/Families must register for Christmas food boxes by Friday, December 17, and for the toy store by Friday, December 17.

To register or if there are questions, please call 704-872-4045.