Bryan Stalder 
Contributor

As the holiday season approaches, the Northeast Kansas City Chamber of Commerce (NEKCCoC) is calling on local businesses and residents to help spread gratitude and generosity throughout the Historic Northeast. This year, the Chamber is organizing a Thanksgiving Food & Essentials Basket Drive to support local families in need.

The initiative aims to collect food, household items, and comfort goods that will be assembled into festive baskets and delivered to families before Thanksgiving. Donations can be dropped off at the Chamber office, located at 2657 Independence Blvd., Kansas City, Mo., through Thursday, November 20.

While traditional Thanksgiving foods like canned vegetables, boxed stuffing, and cranberry sauce are welcome, organizers emphasize that all types of contributions are appreciated — from kitchen supplies and winter clothing to gift cards and small family comfort items like board games or books.

“We want every business and neighbor to have an opportunity to participate,” said Bobbi Baker of the NEKCCoC. “Even if you don’t sell food, there are plenty of ways to make a family’s holiday brighter — whether it’s donating warm gloves, a roasting pan, or a gift card to a local restaurant.”

Residents are also invited to nominate a family in need to receive one of the baskets. To participate, community members can submit a short paragraph explaining why a particular family would benefit from the gift, along with a shelf-stable item or winter item donation such as a coat, scarf, or gloves. These contributions will also support the Northeast High School Food Pantry, the “Northeast Village Pantry,” ensuring the spirit of giving extends throughout the neighborhood.

For more information or to arrange a donation pickup, contact the Northeast Kansas City Chamber of Commerce or visit www.nekcchamber.com.

Together, the Chamber and the Historic Northeast community hope to make this Thanksgiving a little warmer, a little brighter, and a lot more hopeful for families right here at home.

This year’s effort also highlights the Chamber’s ongoing commitment to supporting local commerce while addressing community needs. By encouraging residents to purchase items and gift cards from neighborhood stores, the drive helps strengthen small businesses and fosters connections among neighbors. The NEKCCoC hopes that this initiative not only fills baskets with food and essentials, but also fills hearts with the shared joy of giving — reminding everyone that the true spirit of Thanksgiving is found in generosity, unity, and care for one another.