Atlanta church helps fill pantries for 2,500 families ahead of Thanksgiving

A key ministry in southwest Atlanta is stepping up its efforts to provide Thanksgiving relief for families in need. Cascade United Methodist Church (UMC) began its annual Thanksgiving basket giveaway Monday morning, with cars already lined up down the street before dawn. This initiative aims to ensure families have enough food to prepare a traditional Thanksgiving meal and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
The church distributed baskets containing essential groceries, including bread, eggs, potatoes, apples, turkeys, and other items sufficient for feeding a family of four. According to church reports, their goal was to reach 2,500 families, marking their largest Thanksgiving basket giveaway to date. One resident, Boswell, expressed amazement at the turnout, noting the extensive lines of cars waiting to receive the provisions.
Ronald Tann, the outreach director for the event, shared his long-standing commitment to the cause, having participated for nearly 30 years. He recalled starting 27 years prior when the church served just 25 families, highlighting the significant growth and community impact over time. Tann emphasized the critical need exacerbated by recent challenges, including a government shutdown and uncertainty surrounding SNAP benefits.
He described witnessing firsthand the difficult choices families must make, such as choosing between paying their power bills and purchasing groceries. Tann also mentioned his personal connection to the community, as he lives nearby and can walk home from the church, adding a personal touch to the church’s mission of helping those within the community.
Boswell, a recipient, expressed gratitude for the support, mentioning his reliance on limited food stamps and the difference the church’s assistance makes. Pastor Rev. Kevin Murriel encouraged attendees not to lose hope amidst hardships, attributing the church’s ability to respond to God’s grace and emphasizing the importance of maintaining hope in a world filled with challenges, aligning with the biblical principle of caring for the vulnerable.
In a display of community partnership, members of the Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity presented a $2,500 donation to Cascade UMC, supporting their ongoing mission to serve their neighbors through practical aid and mercy work.

Source: Read the original report