SKANEATELES - Weeks before most people will begin planning their Thanksgiving feasts, a local effort is trying to make them realize others may not have enough money for holiday dinners.

Let's Talk Turkey kicked off Nov. 1 and will run through Nov. 10. Businesses donate $15 to pay for a turkey, or more in some cases. Then, employees and customers are encouraged to provide nonperishable items to complete the meal for the Skaneateles Ecumenical Food Pantry.

Chris Gary of First National Gifts and Brenda Block of Orchard Originals organized this endeavor the first year and again are heading it this year.

“Four years ago, we were trying to figure something out to give back to the community and we came up with the idea of a food drive,” Block said. Block usually hosts a Christmas open house in November, so with Thanksgiving around the corner, it seemed like perfect timing.

“We started thinking that this was a ... great way to involve people,” Gary said.

The women learned the food pantry's cupboards are low and responded by assisting the agency in building up its supplies before the upcoming holidays.

While the concept focuses on businesses and customers, people also can just contribute items. Residents can drop off money or checks made out to the pantry at the SECNY Federal Credit Union on Fennell Street, and nonperishable items to Gallinger Real Estate, 28 E. Genesee St. Participating businesses will have signs in the window letting people know where they can donate.

The program has been successful in the past, and Gary credits that to the fact that it's an easy way to help someone in need and makes people feel good, both the givers and the recipients.

While Let's Talk Turkey allows merchants to donate to the community they serve, the effort also raises awareness about all community members, including those who may need a helping hand.

“I don't think people realize Skaneateles is more than the beautiful mansions and beautiful lake and don't see that there are people here who need help,” Block said.

“We're the vehicle that allows everyone to help,” Gary said. “I really feel this is a ‘pay it forward' for everybody.”

Gary hopes this will encourage others to reach out to other food pantries or anyone else who needs assistance.

“Because of our economic times, everyone should turn to someone who could use help,” she said.

This campaign to collect food for needy residents has brought together residents and business owners to assist the community.

“It's really refreshing to see (businesses' reactions),” Gary said. “Initially when Gallinger was approached, they said ‘How can we help?' It's really nice for the business community to join together for a common goal.”