Community Comes Together to Feed Thousands in Need
Local Church and Market Team Up for Holiday Meal Distribution
More than 2,000 hot meals were given out Tuesday at Saint Sabina Catholic Church on the city’s South Side, as part of a long-standing partnership between the church and BJ’s Market & Bakery.
A Decade of Giving Back
For about a dozen years, BJ’s Market has teamed up with Saint Sabina to give away thousands of meals to those in need around the holidays. The partnership is a testament to the market’s commitment to giving back to the community.
Meeting the Need
Rev. Michael Pfleger, Senior Pastor at Saint Sabina, explained the reasoning behind the partnership. “You know, some people can’t cook, some elderly don’t cook and some people just don’t have a kitchen or a house to be in. So, they’re gonna get a delicious hot meal and know that somebody cares about them today.”
A Community Cornerstone
BJ’s Market sits at the corner of West 79th Street and South Racine Avenue, just a block from the church. The market has been a community cornerstone for years, and its owners are grateful to be a part of the holiday meal distribution effort.
A Heartfelt Thank You
“This is our biggest event of the year and we look forward to it every year,” said John Meyer from BJ’s Market.
Sponsorship and Support
The meal was sponsored by attorney and philanthropist Amy Witherite, who was joined by her adopted daughter, Ella. The pair spoke about the impact of food insecurity on their own lives and the importance of addressing this issue in Chicago.
A Personal Connection
Ella Witherite shared her own experience of food insecurity, having spent the first three years of her life in an orphanage in Russia. “I know what it feels like to have an empty stomach and I know how the kindness of a small act like this can fill someone’s heart,” she said.
Addressing the Need
Amy Witherite emphasized the need for continued support and recognition of those struggling with food insecurity. “There’s such a need in our world, and we need people to step up and step in and understand that people work very, very hard and even then they cannot support their family. They do not have security and this is just one very blessed day to recognize and support them with a hot meal.”
Conclusion
The partnership between Saint Sabina and BJ’s Market is a shining example of the power of community coming together to make a difference. As the holiday season approaches, it serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing food insecurity and supporting those in need.
FAQs
* Q: How long has BJ’s Market and Saint Sabina been partnering for the holiday meal distribution?
A: For about a dozen years.
* Q: Why is this partnership important?
A: It provides a delicious hot meal to those in need and shows that someone cares about them during the holiday season.
* Q: Who sponsored the meal this year?
A: Attorney and philanthropist Amy Witherite.
