Volunteers at the Vivalon Healthy Aging Campus in San Rafael, California, assembled and prepared 150 Thanksgiving meals on November 26, 2025. The meals are designated for homebound seniors and individuals with chronic illnesses in Marin County, ensuring they can enjoy a festive holiday meal despite their circumstances.
The nonprofit, formerly known as Whistlestop, organized the meal preparation with contributions from local organizations. Donors included the San Rafael Host Lions Club, Rotary Club of Novato, Nothing Bundt Cakes, United Markets, and Nugget Markets. This collaborative effort exemplifies community spirit and generosity ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday.
On the day of the assembly, volunteers worked diligently to prepare the meals. Among them were notable participants such as Barb Delaney, Steven Winningham, Barbara Luttig-Haber, Lisa Whitaker, Stephanie DalPorto, and Margy Ayotte. They engaged in various tasks, from cooking to assembling meal packages.
In addition to meal preparation, the team decorated the campus cafe to create a warm and inviting atmosphere for the holiday meal. Baptiste Pierru, Vivalon’s nutrition programs manager, provided guidance and support for the volunteers throughout the process, ensuring that everything ran smoothly.
The meals will be delivered to recipients’ doorsteps on the morning of Thanksgiving, allowing those who are unable to prepare meals themselves to partake in the holiday’s spirit of gratitude and sharing. The initiative not only addresses food insecurity but also fosters connections within the community, offering a sense of belonging to those who may feel isolated during the holiday season.
This effort at Vivalon highlights the essential role of local nonprofits in providing support and nourishment to vulnerable populations. As community members come together, the impact of their collaboration resonates, making a meaningful difference in the lives of many during this special time of year.
