Volunteers Across South Florida Serve Up Help Ahead of Thanksgiving
Community Efforts Make a Difference
Volunteers across South Florida have been spending their free time serving up help ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday. From local churches to nonprofits, volunteers are feeding a need, and their hard work is making a Thanksgiving meal possible for dozens of families.
New Vision Emmanuel Baptist Church’s Community Outreach
For members of the New Vision Emmanuel Baptist Church in Miami, Thanksgiving is more than handing out turkeys, although they did give out many of those, Sunday morning. For people like Pastor Eric Remonvil and his congregation, it’s about knocking on doors and asking folks what they need.
"It’s so important that the church builds bridges with the community, and here at the New Haven community — this is a community that’s right across the street from our church, so it’s near and dear to our hearts," said Remonvil. "A lot of our members live in here as well, so we want to make an impact, not just spiritually, but also for what they need."
Goodman Jewish Family Services’ Meal Distribution
In Davie, volunteers with Goodman Jewish Family Services of Broward County packed hundreds of meals to be delivered to those homebound, or to hand out to those in need who came by to pick them up. The meal distribution in Davie paid tribute to Chef Howie Kleinberg, a "Top Chef" competitor and Miami restaurateur who passed away in 2022. His favorite holiday, his family said, was Thanksgiving.
Cost of Thanksgiving Meal
The cost of the traditional meal is up from a year ago, although the American Farm Bureau Federation said the price of turkey has dropped 6% to an average of $25.67. It’s the cost of all of the side dishes that has pushed the price of the overall meal about 2.5% higher than it was in 2023.
Orange Bowl Committee’s Food Distribution
At Harris Field Park in Homestead, the Orange Bowl Committee handed out food to close to 1,000 families in need, Saturday. "We’ve had people in line for three to four hours this morning, waiting for the opportunity to not only get the turkey, but feel loved and appreciated," said Orange Bowl Committee member LaTéssa Dotson Hall.
Conclusion
As the holiday season approaches, it’s heartwarming to see communities come together to make a difference. From local churches to nonprofits, volunteers are working hard to ensure that everyone has a chance to enjoy a Thanksgiving meal. If you’re interested in getting involved, there are several food banks that are looking for volunteers.
FAQs
Q: What is the cost of a traditional Thanksgiving meal?
A: The cost of a traditional Thanksgiving meal is up from a year ago, with the American Farm Bureau Federation reporting a 2.5% increase.
Q: How can I get involved in helping those in need this Thanksgiving?
A: You can find information about local food banks and volunteer opportunities by visiting the websites of organizations such as Farm Share Food Distribution and Feeding South Florida.
Q: What is the Orange Bowl Committee’s food distribution program?
A: The Orange Bowl Committee’s food distribution program is a community outreach initiative that provides food to those in need during the holiday season.
