Join TD Ryan: DeKalb County Podcaster on a Mission to Gather Thanksgiving Turkeys and Stock Up Holiday Freezers!

WNIJ host Jason Cregier chatted with local podcaster Terry “TD” Ryan about his recent food drive, “Let’s Talk Turkey,” and the upcoming “Freezin for Food.” Both events support the DeKalb Salvation Army Food Pantry.

Jason Cregier: TD, now that “Let’s Talk Turkey” has wrapped up, what were the stats from the drive?

TD Ryan: We collected 288 turkeys and over $5,000 in donations. This means we’ll buy even more turkeys, totaling 641! We aimed for 700 to match the 700 families registered for help at the DeKalb Salvation Army Food Pantry. Though we didn’t hit our goal, we still made a big impact.

Jason Cregier: And all that food stays in DeKalb County, right?

TD Ryan: Absolutely. Local churches helped with side dishes too, so families can enjoy a complete Thanksgiving meal.

Jason Cregier: Recently, there’s been anxiety about SNAP benefits and rising grocery costs. How did that affect the tone during “Let’s Talk Turkey”?

TD Ryan: There was a feeling of quiet desperation. People realize how quickly financial situations can change. The Salvation Army told me that food from “Freezin for Food” will last into April and May, which is reassuring.

Jason Cregier: Speaking of “Freezin for Food,” that event is happening December 4-6 at the Hy-Vee parking lot in Sycamore. What’s the story behind it, TD?

TD Ryan: This is the 25th year of “Freezin for Food.” In the early days, I lived in the parking lot for three days! Just like our previous drive, all donations stay in DeKalb County. I like to think of this food drive as a modern twist on bringing a casserole to neighbors in need.

Jason Cregier: And you’ll be out in the cold as usual?

TD Ryan: Yes! It looks like we’ll have wintry weather during the drive. We will be freezing for food!

Jason Cregier: Do you have a specific donation goal this time?

TD Ryan: Honestly, this is the first year I’m running it without terrestrial radio support. “Let’s Talk Turkey” was a way to see how a social media-driven campaign could work.

TD Ryan will be out there, literally freezing for food during “Freezin for Food,” which runs December 4-6 at the Hy-Vee parking lot in Sycamore. All proceeds will benefit the DeKalb Salvation Army Food Pantry. You can also catch TD on the TD Ryan Unleashed podcast. Thanks for joining us, TD!

Food insecurity is a growing concern. Recent studies show about 10% of households are struggling to provide enough food. Events like these highlight the community’s efforts to combat hunger.

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