Aiming to ensure no one goes hungry this Thanksgiving, the New Mount Zion Baptist Church hosted its annual Thanksgiving Dinner in the St. Clair-Superior neighborhood. This year, the church provided meals to approximately 150 people, offering both dine-in and take-out options for community members.
Executive Pastor Dr. Crystal Walker emphasized the importance of the event, stating, “We have people that can come in and grab a plate, sit down and eat, or they can grab a plate and take it with them. And then there’s also people that we serve who are sick and shut in, and we deliver meals to their homes.” This comprehensive approach ensures that all members of the community, including those unable to attend in person, benefit from the church’s generosity.
For attendees like Samuel Zegarac, the Thanksgiving dinner was a welcome opportunity to connect with others. “It really means something to me to be here. I was looking for a free meal because I had nowhere else to go, and I found this amazing event,” he shared, highlighting the personal significance of the gathering.
Youth involvement played a crucial role in the event’s success. The church’s youth ministry actively participated in organizing the dinner, with Dr. Walker noting, “It’s so important that we get our youth involved because as we get older, the next generation is going to be taking over.” Engaging young people not only fosters community spirit but also instills values of service and gratitude.
The dinner comes at a time when many families are facing financial challenges, particularly following recent government shutdowns. Shalonda Overton, an organizer of the event, pointed out the pressing need in the community, stating, “There are families right now that are struggling, and just every little bit helps. Even if you do have, there are people that don’t have anywhere to go.”
The atmosphere at the church was described as warm and welcoming, with attendees expressing their gratitude for the support. Zegarac remarked, “I felt warmth, positivity, kindness, and they’re doing really great work here for the people around them.” Such sentiments reflect the event’s broader impact on community cohesion.
In addition to the Thanksgiving dinner, the church operates a food pantry twice a month, further supporting those in need. This commitment to service illustrates the church’s dedication to uplifting its community throughout the year.
As the holiday season unfolds, initiatives like the Thanksgiving Dinner at New Mount Zion Baptist Church serve as vital reminders of the importance of community support and the power of collective goodwill.
