We weren’t surprised to learn that shoppers will pay more for their Thanksgiving meal this year than they did last year. When have we ever seen the cost of living go down?
It’s not just your imagination; there are plenty of number crunchers who will confirm that a meal with turkey and all of our favorite trimmings costs more than it used to. Kansas Farm Bureau reports that last year, the average cost of a Thanksgiving meal for 10 people was just over $64. In 2021, it was $53.31 and in 2020 it was $46.90. Farm Bureau hasn’t released the 2023 cost yet, but the Consumer Price Index reports the food-at-home (grocery store or supermarket purchases) are expected to increase 5.1% this year. Food prices are expected to grow more slowly in 2023 than in 2022 but still at above historical-average rates.
The good news is, $6.40 per person is still a pretty good price for a plate full of Thanksgiving favorites, and if each person brings something, the cost and cooking time are spread out among them. It’s still fun to see who gets the bigger piece of the wishbone and who brings the best dessert.
There are families and individuals facing food insecurity and we hope those folks will be able to make a connection with a food bank, community dinner, or generous civic group or church to help with their needs for both food and compassion. We are thankful for the many generous people out there who share some of their bounty with those in need.
This is a good time to remind everyone about Giving Tuesday. If you’re not sure where your money will do the most good, the Golden Belt Community Foundation is a one-stop shop for dozens of local giving opportunities. Check out the webpage at https://gbcf.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/list/grant or just go to goldenbeltcf.org and click on “Giving Tuesday.”
Next Thursday, as you consider going back for a second dessert while you celebrate winning the wishbone tug of war, don’t forget to wish the same wellbeing for others who don’t have it so good. And consider granting that wish for someone.
– Susan Thacker
