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500 turkeys given to Utah Veterans during Thanksgiving drive-thru event

Volunteer passes a bag to man in white pick-up truck.
Volunteer passes a bag with the fixings for a Thanksgiving meal to a Veteran.
By Gregory House, Public affairs specialist

As the sun rose over the George E. Wahlen VA Medical Center, cars stretched through the campus and to the main entrance, headlights glowing in the crisp morning air.

For the fifth year, Ken Garff Automotive partnered with VA Salt Lake City Health Care System to provide Veterans in need with a Thanksgiving meal.  

Volunteers bustled about, preparing to hand out 500 frozen turkeys and the fixings for a holiday feast. At the front of the line sat U.S. Army Veteran, Basil Joseph Ulibarri. “I appreciate it immensely,” he said, smiling despite the chill. “I appreciate the fact they’ve went through all this trouble for Veterans.” 

Ken Garff Automotive, a long-time supporter of Veterans, partnered with VA Salt Lake City’s Center for Development and Civic Engagement to make the event possible. Volunteers handed out meal with care and shared moments of connection with each recipient. Many Veterans expressed gratitude, their smiles echoing the sentiment that no one would go without this Thanksgiving. 

“We wanted to serve our Veterans and give back to those who have given so much to us. It is a beautiful opportunity for our employees to look a Veteran in the eye and thank them for their service,” said Kate Terry, marketing manager, Ken Garff Automotive. 

For some Veterans and staff at VA Salt Lake City, these meals symbolize more than just sustenance—they’re a gesture of community support. 

“To see that the community supports our mission here to care for the Veteran is just incredibly impactful,” said Sarah Hallen, the Chief of Center of Development and Civic Engagement. 

As the last turkey was distributed, the campus returned to quiet, but the impact of the day lingered. Events like this are a reminder of the power of giving and the importance of ensuring no one in our community goes hungry. 

You can help make a difference this holiday season. Consider donating to a local food bank or organization that serves those in need. If you would like to donate to the VA Salt Lake City food bank, you can bring nonperishable donations directly to building 5 on our main campus and help Veterans experiencing food insecurity or reach. 

If you are interested in partnering with VA Salt Lake City Voluntary Service or just volunteering, you can call Voluntary Service at 801-584-1241 or for more information head to https://www.va.gov/salt-lake-city-health-care/work-with-us/volunteer-or-donate/ .