Home Features Thanksgiving 2020: Gilmour and the Nation Change Tradition

Thanksgiving 2020: Gilmour and the Nation Change Tradition

By
Andrew Mayer
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Photo Courtesy: Mr. Neal Busch

Nearing the end of 2020, the holiday season is right around the corner. This year has been turbulent to say the least, but one constant is the COVID-19 pandemic. The virus has changed every aspect of our lives, and it certainly will impact the holidays. Thanksgiving  is almost upon us, and many families around the country are unsure on how to approach the holiday. 

Both the local and federal government have recognized the problems that are posed by the holiday amidst a pandemic. Governor Mike DeWine gave a warning to Ohioans about Thanksgiving. He asserts that whenever someone outside your household comes to a gathering, it poses a risk. He continued to explain that asymptomatic spread can occur with anyone, even between our family and friends. DeWine recommends avoiding the risk of a multi-family gathering, but if you must, he highly recommends wearing a mask. During DeWine’s November 19 press conference, he and his wife revealed that they will be having Thanksgiving virtually to reduce possible harm for high risk members of their family. 

On a national level, the CDC has released guidelines as well. They too are recommending a small dinner with members of your household. They are also advising against traveling, especially to high exposure areas like Northeast Ohio. Alternatives like Zooming, sharing family recipes, or holding an outdoor socially distanced event are proposed. In the statement, the CDC also discourages shopping in person on Black Friday. For more information from the CDC to safely enjoy the holiday CLICK HERE.

Like many families across the country, Gilmour has made some adjustments to their Thanksgiving traditions. The annual Brother Richard Keller Thanksgiving Food Drive is a staple to the holiday season for the Gilmour Community.
Director of Mission Integration Ms. Whitney Daly coordinates the drive. She said, “The need in our community right now is incredible.” According to Ms. Daly, the Gilmour community has responded. This year baskets will include the items that are usually donated such as gravy, mac and cheese, and vegetables, but they will also include masks, wipes, and hand sanitizer. Money donations are done online this year, and the deliveries will be facilitated differently. Usually, groups of Gilmour students, alumni, and community members would deliver to those in need, but this year immediate Gilmour families will go alone, dropping off baskets in front of each residence for a safe and contactless delivery. Ms. Daly said that despite the pandemic, “the number of people who are willing to volunteer has been amazing.”

Thanksgiving is a holiday that is very important to people and the thought of not being able to celebrate the holiday is very saddening, the COVID-19 pandemic has made us appreciate what we have more than Thanksgiving ever has before. We take the simple things for granted in life and we don’t miss them until they are gone. Mrs. Daly said that “remembering all that we have for which to be thankful and acknowledging that family and community are bigger than the people who join you at the table” is especially important this year and encourages the Gilmour family to remember these things this Thursday.

UPDATE: 11/25/20 12:11 P.M. Precision, Photo “Courtesy” added. Spelling revised.

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