Local nonprofit provides the homeless with everyday essentials
Dec 21, 2024
MEMPHIS, Tenn. -- This is the season of giving and numerous Mid-South organizations are doing their part to give back to the community.
With only a few days left until Christmas, many Memphians are busy doing last-minute shopping or preparing for their holiday meal.
However, one organization made sure those who were less fortunate had the opportunity to experience some holiday joy on Saturday morning.
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"We're thinking about that good holiday food, but some people are thinking about what they're going to eat today," Jeremy Whittaker said.
The non-profit ABC's of Life, Inc. passed out winter essentials such as blankets, sleeping bags, hoodies, gloves, and toiletries to those in need in Downtown Memphis.
People even walked away with a hot meal.
ABC's of Life hosts giveaway event.ABC's of Life hosts giveaway event.ABC's of Life hosts giveaway event.
Katrina Lee-Gordan says she's been planning the event since the Summer.
"To be honest, we're all one paycheck away from being homeless," Lee-Gordon said. "So, you know, why not make it comfortable for someone else that actually lives in the community?"
The event was hosted at St. Mary's Episcopal Cathedral in Downtown Memphis.
The church often assists and feeds those in need in the area, but members say the need is far too great for one organization to fulfill.
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"The need is daily and we as a parish are not able to meet that need every day," Rev. Dr. Noah Campbell said. "It's wonderful when other groups in the community want to partner with us and use our space and our location to extend that ministry of mercy."
Organizers said they are dedicated to changing lives in the community, and this event was just another way to do so.
"Our goal as the ABCs of Life is to Access, Build, Connect. Access individuals and their families. Identify their needs and the ultimate goals to live an independent and productive life. To build a plan to meet that and to connect them with those resources," Whittaker said. "So, today really epitomizes connecting with that exact idea."
Organizers say they plan on continuing this event for years to come.