Coastal Windows & Exteriors Doubles Thanksgiving Turkey Donation Amid Rising Food Insecurity

Coastal Windows & Exteriors, a woman-owned home remodeling company based in Beverly, Massachusetts, has significantly expanded its annual Thanksgiving turkey donation in response to growing community needs. This year, the company will provide 50 turkeys to North Shore residents through The Open Door Food Pantry, doubling its usual contribution. The initiative, part of Coastal Windows & Exteriors' 'Freedom from Want' tradition now in its ninth consecutive year, comes at a crucial time as local food insecurity continues to rise. The Open Door Food Pantry has reported a double-digit increase in requests for food assistance in 2024, highlighting the urgent need for support in the community.

Stephanie Vanderbilt, owner of Coastal Windows & Exteriors, emphasized the company's commitment to giving back, stating that they've made it part of their mission to give back to the communities they serve in whatever way possible. This Thanksgiving, the company is doing so on behalf of their current October and November customers, which makes the gesture even more fulfilling. In addition to the turkey donation, the company has also provided 25 Thanksgiving 'fixin' food bags to Beverly Bootstraps, further extending their support to local families in need. The food bags contain essential items for a traditional Thanksgiving meal, with Henry's Market donating insulated bags for the initiative.

The turkey donation represents a collaborative effort involving local businesses. Mike Halle, Operations Manager at Henry's Market, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, noting the dramatic increase in food insecurity throughout the North Shore due to rising living costs. Julie LaFontaine, President and CEO of The Open Door, highlighted the significance of the donation, saying that Thanksgiving dinner is more than just a meal; it's a time to make memories with loved ones and share in the joy of the season. She expressed gratitude to partners like Coastal Windows who step up to support the community.

The company's efforts extend beyond Thanksgiving. Coastal Windows & Exteriors recently sponsored two veteran recognition events and participates in the Roofs for Heroes initiative, providing free roofing systems to veterans in need. Stephanie Vanderbilt's leadership and commitment to community service have not gone unnoticed. She was recently named 2024 Small Business Person of the Year for Massachusetts by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), recognizing her resilience, creativity, and support for the community and veterans.

As the holiday season approaches and with predictions of a challenging winter ahead, Coastal Windows & Exteriors continues to support the community through its core business of providing energy-efficient replacement windows, doors, roofing, and siding. The company's efforts to combine business success with community support serve as a model for corporate social responsibility in challenging times, demonstrating how local businesses can make meaningful contributions to address pressing community needs while maintaining their commercial operations.