BY DR. BRENDA THOMPSON, GUEST WRITER TO THE TIMES
ORLANDO – On November 25,2024, in a heartwarming display of community spirit, 100 Black Men of Greater Orlando, Inc., Publix Charities, Coca Cola Beverages, Lee Wesley, and O-Town Provisions held their annual Thanksgiving Distribution Event bringing smiles and nourishment to families in need across the area. The 100 Black Men of Greater Orlando, Inc. came together to distribute over one hundred fifty (150) food baskets filled with items such as turkeys, canned goods, and other essentials for preparing a home cooked meal.
The event kicked off early Monday morning, with six (6) Churches lining up to receive enough Thanksgiving baskets to enable them to feed twenty-five (25) families each, totaling 150 families being fed this Thanksgiving: Rev. Dr. Debra Reed, Truth By Fire Ministries; Rev. David Ferguson – First AME; Rev. Nixon Francisque – Amazing Grace World Mission Church; Rev. Dr. DeMetra Williams – Holy Trinity COGIC; Rev. Alexander Smith – New Hope Missionary Baptist Church, and Rev. Dr. Brenda Thompson – St. Paul AME Church/Winter Garden, the baskets will allow one hundred fifty (150) families to celebrate the holiday season despite economic challenges.
“This event is about more than just food; it’s about fostering a sense of community and support,” said Reginald Whitehead, president of 100 Black Men of Greater Orlando, Inc. “We believe that everyone deserves a happy Thanksgiving, and we’re proud to be able to help make that happen.”
Volunteers, including members of 100 Black Men and local businesses worked tirelessly to pack and distribute the baskets. The collaboration exemplified the organization’s commitment to mentorship and community service, highlighting the power of coming together for a common cause.
Rev. Dr. Brenda Thompson of St. Paul AME Church/Winter Garden expressed heartfelt thanks: “This means so much to our community. With everything going on, we were worried about how to feed those in our community who, without the food distribution could not celebrate Thanksgiving this year. Thanks to 100 Black Men of Greater Orlando, Inc., they can now enjoy this holiday together with their family.”
The Thanksgiving Distribution Event not only provided immediate relief but also strengthened community bonds, reminding everyone of the importance of giving back and looking out for one another. Dr. Debra Reed (Truth By Fire International Ministries) stated that “the individual families will be happy to receive and joyful to know someone cares for their well-being.”
As the organization looks to the future, they plan to expand their outreach initiatives, aiming to provide even more support to families in need year-round.
For more information on 100 Black Men of Greater Orlando, Inc., and their programs, visit www.100bmgo.com.
