SPRINGFIELD, Mass. - The Gray House nonprofit organization is looking for donations of food and will be opening registration this week for families who may be eligible for a free meal this Thanksgiving holiday.

The human service agency based out of Springfield supports families facing hardships by providing them with food, clothing and educational services to support their immediate and transitional needs. The house will be providing thanksgiving meals for families around Hampden County who are in need.

Executive director Kristin McClintock said the house will have open registration on site this Tuesday and Saturday, and again on Friday, November 11. She said they are already taking food donations.

"Any community members who would like to take part are welcome to donate either a frozen turkey or any of those traditional Thanksgiving sides," McClintock said. "Again, cranberry sauce, stuffing, canned vegetables, gravy packets. Even like desert items such as cake mix and frosting."

McClintock said the rising costs of food this year has increased the demand for food supplies from the organization since January and donations from the community are needed now more than ever to support struggling families this holiday season.

"This year with inflation numbers at historic levels, families are really really struggling to make ends meet," McClintock said. "If we're able to provide them with a turkey, the sides, basically a complete Thanksgiving meal to share with their families, it really alleviates the financial burden that the holiday season can present."

The Gray House will be distributing turkeys to all the eligible families who apply on Monday, November 21 and Tuesday, November 22. Donations can be dropped off at the house Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. through November 16.