DSTI Employees Brighten Holidays for Local Kids, Families

DSTI employees donate Thanksgiving meal baskets for 45 families needing a helping hand this holiday season.

DSTI employees donate Thanksgiving meal baskets for 45 families needing a helping hand this holiday season.

All of the makings for a good meal - whole turkeys, potatoes, stuffing, vegetables, buns and desserts were collected, packed and delivered to North Anoka County Emergency (NACE) Food Shelf in time to be distributed to families most in need.

"DSTI is proud to be part of its local community, and by participating with organizations such as NACE Food Shelf, gives employees the chance to give back to a community that has given us much in return," said Patrick Parker, General Manager of DSTI.

NACE has traditionally offered complete meals baskets for Christmas and Easter, but has been unable to find a corporate partner to supply Thanksgiving meals. Knowing the historic and overwhelming generosity of DSTI employees, NACE asked DSTI to join forces again this year.

"Thank you to everyone at DSTI for giving 45 families a great Thanksgiving," said NACE Food Shelf Volunteer Coordinator Carol Novak. "They were so appreciative and happy for all the wonderful food you provided. Your generosity is amazing."

In addition to the meal drive, DSTI employees continue to volunteer their weekend time this December leading up to the holidays to collect toys in support of their annual Toys for Tots drive.

Last year, DSTI employees collected nearly 1,400 toys donated by local community members.

"These community opportunities are often discovered, initiated and driven at the employee level," added Parker. "We are all very proud and privileged to help when we can and for being able to meet those needs year-over-year."