Local Bakeries Unite to Sweeten Thanksgiving for Families in Need: The Third Annual Thanksgiving Matchup
As Thanksgiving approaches, many families are feeling the pinch of rising costs, leading them to make tough choices when it comes to their holiday dinner. While the turkey, stuffing, and sides are essential, desserts often take a backseat—or are entirely skipped. That’s where local bakeries in Albuquerque step in with their heartwarming initiative: the Thanksgiving Matchup. This program aims to ensure everyone can enjoy a sweet treat during this festive season, regardless of their financial situation.
This year marks the third annual Thanksgiving Matchup, where local bakeries partner with families to provide homemade desserts free of charge. The initiative has grown over the years, and it’s clear that community spirit is at the heart of this sweet endeavor. “It’s a really big moment for us that we can help the community and put a sweet treat on the table for the holidays,” said Xandria Molinari, owner of Delectable Baking Co., who is passionate about making desserts accessible to all.
In its inaugural year, the Thanksgiving Matchup helped 80 families. Last year, the number jumped significantly to 120 families helped, showcasing the growing impact of this initiative in the Albuquerque area. However, this year presents a new challenge. Although the desire to help has not dwindled, the number of participating bakeries has decreased significantly. Only 15 bakeries are involved this time around, a sharp decline from last year’s 60. “This is a considerable amount less, so we’re hoping the community will pull together and help us out. We want to assist as many families as possible,” Molinari expressed, highlighting the need for community support to expand their outreach.
The essence of this program is its simplicity. Families in need can sign up to receive a dessert without having to meet any financial qualifications. “We don’t have any requirements. We don’t ask for any income qualifications; we really do this just on a Good Samaritan basis. If you need help, we will help you,” Molinari explained, making it clear that the priorities are compassion and service to the community. However, due to the limited number of participating bakeries, some families may need to be placed on a waitlist.
For families interested in participating, the application process is straightforward. All that is required is a sweet tooth and the willingness to enjoy delicious baked goods this Thanksgiving. Those who want to be part of the initiative can fill out an online form available on the Delectable Baking Co. website. This year, families have until Saturday to submit their applications, so time is of the essence for anyone hoping to secure a dessert for the holiday feast.
The Thanksgiving Matchup is not only about desserts; it embodies a broader message of community connection and support. This initiative represents how local businesses can make a significant difference in the lives of families, promoting a sense of unity and gratitude during the season. Many families look forward to the joyous tradition of sharing holiday meals, and dessert is often the cherry on top that makes these gatherings special.
In a world marked by uncertainty and economic challenges, initiatives like the Thanksgiving Matchup remind us of the importance of giving back to the community. The kindness of local bakeries fills a vital gap, ensuring that that no one has to miss out on the sweetness of Thanksgiving dessert, especially when family and friends gather to celebrate.
As we gear up for Thanksgiving, we encourage locals to rally behind this cause, whether by signing up, spreading the word, or supporting participating bakeries. Every little bit helps, and together we can make this Thanksgiving a little sweeter for everyone involved.
For more details and to sign up for the Thanksgiving Matchup, you can visit this link. Don’t miss the opportunity to bring joy and sweetness to your Thanksgiving table this year!
