DETROIT – Second Ebenezer Church held a turkey giveaway as part of its annual Hope in the City initiative.
This is the 10th year the church lead the Hope in the City initiative with its partners. on Saturday, hundreds of cars lined up for blocks stretching to the Davison Freeway.
“There’s an expectation in the community,” said Bishop Edgar L. Vann II, a senior pastor. “This is what we do. It’s who we are. It’s what we do. We’re very excited about having the opportunity to serve residents.”
The first few cars arrived as early as 5 a.m., he said.
“I had about a pretty good spot,” said Sandra Duncan, a church member and guest. “It was about 50 cars or maybe 60 cars ahead of me.”
The initiative runs throughout the holiday with the turkey giveaway being the second installment of the program. In the beginning of the month, the church said it helped cover $50 of grocery bills for 100 unexpected Meijer shoppers.
Saturday’s distribution not only passed out a thousand turkeys but also healthy whole foods. This year, the coalition reports it is seeing an uptick for help.
“We’re seeing distribution partners that we’re partnered with -- they’re experiencing their need up to 30 percent month over month of an increase,” said Adrian Lewis, CEO of Forgotten Harvest. “So, to me -- that tells me it’s not just one demographic.”
For the guests, the moment shows what matters most and how there are still some things to be grateful for this holiday season.
“Being around family. Yes, that’s also a blessing. Giving thanks -- thanks to God,” Veronica Simmons said.