As Thanksgiving is only a few short days away, many families begin prepping the turkey, organizing the house, and planning the yearly traditions. Thanksgiving is traditionally a joyous time of year because it is a time to reflect on all the wonderful things we have in our lives. As we bless our food, we thank God for our families, our friends and the loved ones who are no longer with us, yet will always have a place in our hearts. It is the one day that we remember to thank God for all his great blessings! 

However, this annual tradition is not as joyous for others. Many families can’t afford a turkey dinner and find themselves attending local shelters and churches for a hot and love-filled turkey dinner.

Today is Day One of our 30-Day Christmas Giving Challenge, so let’s help support a local church or pantry that is hosting a Thanksgiving dinner or a food pantry in need of food. I have listed the many local churches or organizations who are looking for donations:

• Milton United Methodist Church Food Pantry  http://www.miltonumc.net/ministries/outreach/new-hope-food-pantry/
• Pope John HS –12-pound fresh turkey (not frozen) – please drop off a 12-pound turkey on Tuesday morning 11/26 between 7 – 9 am at Pope John HS OR my house anytime today between 9 am – 8 pm (Monday 11/25), and I will deliver them all on Tuesday). If you would like to drop off a turkey to my house, please reach out to me at mleppard@optonline.net or via cell phone (201) 463-5543.
• Market Street Mission – https://www.marketstreet.org/
• ACME – Donate a Bag
• Community Food Bank of NJ – https://cfbnj.org/turkey  
• Interfaith Food Pantry – http://mcifp.org/news/thanksgiving-basket-program/
• You may also want to check your local church or community organization.

Let’s feed the hungry this Thanksgiving. Rather than stopping for your morning coffee or going out for lunch, use that money to support your local shelter or pick up a fresh turkey for those in need.

For I was hungry and you gave me food.….. Matthew 25:35 – 36