On Thanksgiving, many of us sat around the dinner table surrounded by friends and families expressing our gratitude over heaping plates of food. Thousands of men, women and children who are struggling to survive in today's economy also shared in the holiday, thanks to the generosity of their neighbors.

Many people and organizations came forward to help make Connecticut Food Bank's "Thanksgiving for All" campaign a success. Together, we collected 24,516 turkeys and more than 360 tons of trimmings. We provided nearly 779,503 meals for people in need this holiday season.

The kindness demonstrated throughout our Thanksgiving campaign was awe-inspiring and a testament to what we can do when we work together as a community. As today's recession continues to push more of our neighbors over the brink of financial security, we must do more. Hunger is a year-round issue. You can help Connecticut families year-round by making a donation at www.ctfoodbank.org.

We have the ability and fortitude to feed thousands of individuals who were in danger of going without a holiday meal. Let's carry that resolve into the days and months ahead.

On behalf of Connecticut Food Bank and the 650 food-assistance programs we serve, we are grateful for the community's wonderful support.

Editor's note: The writer is chief executive officer of the Connecticut Food Bank.