Community Comes Together For Thanksgiving Food Giveaways In Charles County

LA PLATA, Md. — A coordinated community effort supported two major food assistance events in La Plata and Waldorf this past weekend, with American Legion Post 82, LifeStyles of Maryland and local donors working together to help families heading into the holiday week.

American Legion Post 82 hosted the Shutdown Support Food Relief Distribution on Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025, partnering with LifeStyles of Maryland to provide groceries to active-duty military, veterans, and federal workers.

In the days leading up to the event, the Legion collected food donations at the post to help prepare for Sunday’s distribution. Volunteers from the Legion, LifeStyles, and a local Cub Scout troop sorted supplies, packed bags, and assisted families as they arrived throughout the morning.

Island Music Donation Helped Refill Shelves

Community contributions played a key role in the weekend’s success. Island Music Company supported LifeStyles’ holiday relief efforts through its annual Holiday String Giveaway, which offered free instrument restrings in exchange for donated food and collected 5,000 pounds in total.

The donation helped LifeStyles restock its pantry and supplied inventory used for both Sunday’s joint distribution with the Legion and LifeStyles’ Thanksgiving event the following day.

LifeStyles Hosts Thanksgiving Giveaway On Nov. 24

On Monday, Nov. 24, LifeStyles held its Thanksgiving Food Giveaway at its distribution center in Waldorf, offering holiday baskets that included turkey, ham, or turkey breast along with fresh produce.

Any remaining items from the previous day’s distribution were used to support the Thanksgiving event, ensuring nothing went to waste and that families across Southern Maryland had access to holiday meals.

Residents wishing to contribute to upcoming food distributions may contact LifeStyles of Maryland or follow American Legion Post 82 for information on future donation opportunities.

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