Coastal Windows & Exteriors, a Beverly-based exterior remodeling company, is marking its 10th consecutive year of donating turkeys to local food pantries as The Open Door reports a 26% surge in food assistance requests since 2024. The company is donating 50 turkeys weighing 839 pounds to The Open Door in Gloucester and 25 fixin' bags to Beverly Bootstraps, helping families prepare Thanksgiving meals at home.
The initiative, which began in 2015, has resulted in over 500 turkeys donated and more than $10,000 in direct food support through partnerships with Beverly Bootstraps and The Open Door. This year's donations come at a critical time, as The Open Door and Beverly Bootstraps have experienced a double-digit increase in requests for food assistance.
"For the past decade, Coastal Windows has embraced the spirit of giving by helping create freedom from want during the holidays with turkey donations," said Julie LaFontaine, President and CEO of The Open Door. "This effort is a powerful example of community strength and the impact of business partnerships working together for good."
Stephanie Vanderbilt, owner of Coastal Windows & Exteriors and 2024 Massachusetts Small Business Person of the Year, emphasized the company's commitment to both shelter and sustenance. "What is Freedom from Want in today's world? It's both shelter and sustenance—a secure roof overhead, a warm draft-free home and food on every table," Vanderbilt said. "As the #1 woman-owned exterior remodeling contractor in New England, we protect homes from cold and unpredictable weather. Through our community partnerships, we're equally committed to making sure those homes have filled pantries and warm holiday meals."
The company's decade-long commitment extends beyond Thanksgiving. Coastal Windows & Exteriors supports veterans through the Roofs for Heroes program, sponsors community recognition events, and maintains partnerships with organizations addressing fundamental needs across the North Shore. The company also helps homeowners reduce energy bills through high-performance windows, insulated siding, and energy-efficient roofing systems, which can free up resources for other essential needs, especially as the Farmers' Almanac predicts a harsh winter and energy costs are projected to rise 13% or more.
Established in 2011, Coastal Windows & Exteriors is a woman-owned, family-run exterior remodeling company in Beverly, Massachusetts. The company has received numerous accolades, including the SBA Massachusetts Business Person of the Year, GAF President's Club Award, James Hardie Service Excellence Award, and the #1 Woman-Owned Replacement Company in New England on the Inc. 5000 and Qualified Remodeler Top 500 List.
