NORTH AUGUSTA GIVES BACK: A THANKSGIVING FEAST FOR ALL
As the crisp air settles over North Augusta, and Thanksgiving approaches, the spirit of giving is in full swing. The Community Ministry of North Augusta (CMONA) is working tirelessly to ensure that families in need can gather around a dinner table filled with love, laughter, and delicious food. This annual event, aimed at providing holiday meals, is more important than ever this year.
A Generous Gesture
On November 21, team members and volunteers at CMONA scurried about, preparing for their annual Thanksgiving meal distribution. Manager Becky Kiser and her dedicated crew organized everything from turkeys to desserts, ensuring that families had everything they needed for a hearty Thanksgiving dinner. This year, CMONA distributed 28 turkeys, alongside a wealth of side dishes packed into laundry baskets.
These baskets included everything from stuffing to sweet potatoes, and even a few surprises like eggs, butter, hot dogs, and bologna to help families extend their holiday meals into the days beyond Thanksgiving. Kiser remarked, “We will give them anything extra that will get them through the holiday season,” emphasizing the ongoing need in the community.
The Impact of Adversity
With the aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene still fresh in everyone’s minds, this year’s Thanksgiving meal distribution holds greater significance. Kiser noted how the community’s anxieties about the holiday have risen, as families worry about affording everything needed to celebrate. “They just want to have a family, want to have the food… and just have time together,” she said.
This year, CMONA has increased its outreach, carefully selecting families who are most in need, while also conducting interviews to ensure fair distribution. Volunteers and local churches have joined forces to gather donations that help address this growing need.
A Community Effort
One of the star contributors to this effort is Rachel Phillips from First Baptist Church of North Augusta. Phillips drove in with a trunk full of canned goods donated by the church’s children’s ministry, stating, “I am definitely helping people after the hurricane. I feel like there is more need.” This not only supports local families but also instills the spirit of generosity in the younger generation.
Another dedicated volunteer, Robert Swanson, shared his commitment, saying, “I strive to be God’s hands and feet here on earth toward men.” With three years of volunteering under his belt, Swanson spent the day assisting with turkey and basket preparation, embodying the heart of the community.
Churches Unite for a Common Cause
The generosity doesn’t stop at food donations. Members of Grace United Methodist Church banded together to purchase and provide turkeys for CMONA’s Thanksgiving meal distribution. One of the church members, Angela Davis, highlighted the church’s dual approach — not only offering a meal but also providing items that can support families in the longer term. “It’s a two-fold gift,” she explained, illustrating the deep communal bonds that these acts of kindness create.
Davis further emphasized the awareness and collaboration within the community: “People feel the need to give back and help those who don’t have the resources to always feed themselves.” This shows a remarkable spirit in North Augusta, where residents come together, ensuring that no family has to face the holiday feeling alone or hungry.
#ThankfulTogether
As Thanksgiving day draws near, the continued efforts of volunteers and community organizations remind us all of the importance of kindness, generosity, and support for one another. The warmth of a hearty meal shared among family and friends is perhaps the strongest reminder that, especially in trying times, a community that stands together is a community that thrives.
In North Augusta, the Thanksgiving spirit is alive and well, with many hearts coming together to make sure that everyone can enjoy this special day full of gratitude!
