Freeport, Illinois witnessed a remarkable event on Tuesday night as Bethany United Church of Christ hosted its second annual Thanksgiving food drive. This initiative aimed to make a significant impact on the lives of the local community during the holiday season. Pastor Leon Ashmon III, the church's pastor, emphasized the importance of giving back and ensuring that no one goes hungry during this festive time.

"Feeding the Needy: Bethany's Thanksgiving Food Drive"

Partnership with Molina Healthcare

This year, Bethany United Church of Christ partnered once again with Molina Healthcare of Illinois. With 200 food bags ready to be distributed, along with turkeys and hams, they were well-prepared to meet the needs of the community. Erika Hannah, the senior growth and engagement specialist for Molina Healthcare, highlighted the significance of coming together as a unit to provide for those in need. "We're able to come together as a unit and provide the community with the need that is out there. And we have a lot of individuals that are still experiencing hardship during this holiday season so for us to be able to come together to make it happen for more than 200 families is an awesome feeling," she said.

Contents of the Food Bags

Each food bag was carefully filled with a variety of canned goods. Green beans, corn, mashed potatoes, gravy, mac and cheese, cake mix, cake frosting, stuffing mix, and cranberry sauce were all included. These items were selected to provide a comprehensive and delicious Thanksgiving feast for the families in need. Pastor Ashmon III expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to give back and make a difference. "We don't have many in this area and so for us to have the opportunity and the resources to do it is huge, so we were at the right place at the right time, so want to give back," he said.

Impact on the Community

This food drive is not just about providing food; it's about taking some weight off people's shoulders during the holidays. Pastor Ashmon hopes that by offering these essential items, families can enjoy a more stress-free Thanksgiving. The community has come together to support this cause, showing that even in difficult times, there is kindness and generosity to be found. As we approach the holiday season, events like this remind us of the importance of helping our neighbors and making a positive impact on their lives.