On Saturday, November 22, more than 130 families gathered at the TGR Learning Lab for Grateful Fest, an event designed to celebrate the season of gratitude and serve families in need with dignity. Every guest was personally greeted, guided through 20 tables of food and produce and had their bags carried by a volunteer to their car, ensuring each family felt cared for, supported and honored throughout the process.
As the TGR Learning Lab continues to grow its presence in West Philadelphia and Upper Darby, events like Grateful Fest allow us to support local families not only through educational opportunities but also through holistic community support.
When SNAP benefits were paused earlier this year, the impact was felt immediately among the families served by the Learning Lab and our partner schools. In response, the Learning Lab moved quickly to identify the most vulnerable families with a goal to provide them with full Thanksgiving meals. Through the generosity of donors across the region, the Learning Lab surpassed its goal and Grateful Fest was born.
The families received what the team described as a “dignity meal,” including three bags filled with fresh produce, fruit, Thanksgiving meal essentials and a $50 gift card to purchase a turkey or any additional ingredients needed to complete their holiday meal.
For many families, the impact was deeply personal.
“I’m a single mother, so this is a big help for me,” shared one of the recipients. “This makes me feel so grateful.”
Her words echoed the gratitude expressed throughout the day as families received turkeys and essential side items needed to prepare a full Thanksgiving dinner.
Maria Stroup, event organizer and director of early education, was moved by the generosity and support from donors and volunteers to meet the needs of the community.
“My favorite part about this event is the dignity we shared,” she said. “Every family who came in had a volunteer walk them and their bags directly to their car, and by the end of the event, many first-time volunteers could call our families by name.”
The partnerships that made this event possible, including support from individuals, schools and a local synagogue, are continuing into the holidays. Their generosity will allow the Learning Lab to host another food distribution during Winter Fest on Saturday, December 13, celebrating the season while once again supporting families in need.
What began as an emergency response to a sudden loss of benefits quickly became a powerful community event, rooted in dignity, compassion and the belief that every family deserves to experience the joy of the holiday season.
Whether through academic programming, First Friday community events or food-access initiatives, the Learning Lab remains a reliable resource for local families year-round.
Visit the TGR Learning Lab website or contact us at (267) 900-3970 for more information or opportunities to get involved.
