DENVER — The Denver Rescue Mission distributed 3,000 Thanksgiving food boxes to families in need Tuesday.

The Denver Rescue Mission was prepared to hand out food boxes containing a turkey, boxed mashed potatoes, boxed stuffing, canned fruit, canned vegetables, and canned yams until 1 p.m. Tuesday at Empower Field at Mile High in Denver.

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Any non-registered individuals who would like to receive a Thanksgiving Banquet-In-A-Box can arrive after noon Tuesday and meals will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, Denver Rescue Mission said.

"Thanksgiving is a special time to reach out to the thousands of men, women and children in need in our community," the Denver Rescue Mission said. "The holidays can be a difficult time, and getting a turkey and all the fixings can be a challenge. The Mission has partnered people and businesses across the city to help provide a holiday meal to these families so they have the opportunity to celebrate Thanksgiving."

To date, Denver Rescue Mission has collected more than 14,500 turkeys and is close to reaching its goal of 15,000.

The Denver Rescue Mission began its annual turkey drive earlier this month in the hopes of collecting 15,000 turkeys for those experiencing homelessness and hunger in the metro area.

The drive for frozen turkeys will continue through Wednesday, Nov. 22, the Denver Rescue Mission said. The frozen turkeys are requested to be 12 pounds or larger. 

SUGGESTED VIDEOS: Colorado Guide 

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