Friends -

Thanksgiving is going to look a lot different this year for so many of us.

To protect others, we won't be gathering or traveling as we're used to. We'll get together with our loved ones virtually, though too many of us will have someone missing for the first time this year.

This year has been hard for many -- mass layoffs, unemployment benefits that fail to go far enough, health care bills that stack up. Some of our neighbors need our help simply to make sure that there is food on the table this Thanksgiving.

These hardships are exceptionally true for those in the hospitality industry. UNITE HERE Local 26 estimates that nearly 85% of their members are still out of work. And with cases rising again, business remains bleak for many restaurants and hotels. So today, I want to ask if you can help make sure another family doesn't go hungry during the holidays.

Will you make a donation to UNITE HERE Local 26's fund to support food service and hospitality workers? Whatever you can afford to give will help people in our community keep food on the table during these difficult times.

[link removed]

The truth is this Thanksgiving is going to be hard, but following the CDC's guidance not to travel and gather is what we must do to save lives and defeat this virus.

My hope is that we each find new ways to embrace each other virtually and give thanks for the hope on the horizon -- a new administration in Washington, the promise of multiple effective vaccines, and brighter days ahead.

I know I will take a greater appreciation than ever before when we're able to safely gather with our friends and loved ones.

And while I share your likely deep frustration that we cannot have a "normal" holiday season, I am reminded that for too many that normal is so broken and impossible to fathom -- especially this year. I hope you can help us support our neighbors facing economic hardship right now.

Please consider making a donation to UNITE HERE Local 26's relief fund to help feed food service and hospitality workers during the holiday season. Perhaps you're saving money by not traveling or making less food for your family, and this can be a meaningful way to give back instead.

[link removed]

We may not be able to gather, but we can still stand in solidarity supporting one another. Thank you in advance for making a donation if you are able to afford it.

- Ed Markey

DONATE: [link removed]





----------
Paid for by The Markey Committee
[link removed]