CHARLOTTE POST FOUNDATION

Members of The Charlotte Post Foundation with Walter G. Byers Principal Ericka Lott (middle).

The Charlotte Post Foundation provided 40 families Thanksgiving turkeys and trimmings. 

Families of participants in the foundation’s after school reading and math tutoring program at Ashley Park and Walter G. Byers K-8 schools were chosen by school counselors/teachers who are familiar with the students’ needs. The food was delivered to the schools the Tuesday before Thanksgiving. 

In addition to turkey, families received rolls, canned cranberry sauce, corn, green beans, Hawaiian rolls, sweet potatoes, stuffing, macaroni/mashed potatoes, gravy and dessert. 

“We wanted to make sure that the youth we serve in our after-school program receive food for the Thanksgiving holiday,” Post Foundation President Gerald Johnson said. “When we brought the food to the schools, the staff were so thankful to receive our donations. It really warmed my heart knowing that we were able to give back.”

Teachers and transportation for the after school program are paid by the foundation at the public schools, where small groups of students receive instruction on Tuesdays and Thursdays. 

“Walter G. Byers would like to extend our deepest gratitude to the Charlotte Post Foundation for their generous donation of 20 turkeys and Thanksgiving fixings to support families in our Charlotte Post Foundation afterschool program,” Byers social worker Crystal Oliver said. “This meaningful gift provided our students-who have shown consistency, dedication, and a commitment to improving their academics-with the opportunity to enjoy a warm Thanksgiving meal at home. Our families were truly appreciative, and their joy was felt throughout our community. The Charlotte Post Foundation continues to pour love, support, and compassion into Walter G. Byers, not only through academics, but also by remembering our families during the holidays."

The afterschool program started at Byers in 2019 and expanded to Ashley Park in 2025. The nonprofit hopes to expand the program to a third school in 2026. 

“We wish we could of have done more, and we hope that next year we will be able to double our efforts,” Post Foundation Chair Ellison Clary said. 

For more information on the CPF, visit thepostfoundation.org.