Give Thanks, Give Meals: A Thanksgiving Outreach Event,

About the event

At MERCY, our mission is to provide compassionate services that create opportunities to transform lives. We focus on serving the less fortunate across the globe. Through our dedicated programs and events, we strive to embody the spirit of kindness, compassion, and service. 

Our Give Thanks, Give Meals event is meant to provide those who are less fortunate with a warm meal during this holiday season. Afterall the Thanksgiving holiday is meant to be a time where we reflect on all for which we are thankful. Whether that be family, friends, having a home, or a warm meal. As we reflect on all that we are thankful for, help us so that others may share the same blessings as you. 

With the canned and fresh food and the monetary donations we will purchase, cook, and prepare as many meals as possible to be handed out to those who are less fortunate. Those who are without a home, without family, or who have been struggling financially. Help us provide a smile and a warm meal to those in need in the City of Houston TX. 

- MERCY coordinator for the Houston Intl. Christian Church, Jose O.

Why should you sponsor?

Supporting "Give Thanks, Give Meals" by donating food or money is a meaningful way to make a difference in the lives of homeless people, needy families, and those who may be alone during the Thanksgiving holiday. Here’s an extensive and detailed rationale for why this support is so crucial, incorporating Humand and Biblical principles to underscore the importance of generosity and compassion.

Supporting Human Dignity: Every person deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their circumstances. Providing a meal to those in need reaffirms their worth and helps maintain their dignity. As Jesus taught in Matthew 25:35-36 (NIV): “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.” Supporting meal programs directly aligns with these teachings by addressing fundamental needs.

Breaking the Cycle of Poverty: Regular access to nutritious meals can be a critical step in breaking the cycle of poverty. When people are hungry, it’s difficult to focus on other aspects of life, such as finding employment or improving their situation. By providing meals, you help create a foundation that can lead to greater stability and opportunities.

Combating Loneliness: The holiday season can be especially lonely for individuals who are isolated or homeless. Acts of kindness and community support can provide a sense of belonging and alleviate feelings of loneliness.

Immediate Relief: Many people face food insecurity, and the Thanksgiving holiday can be particularly challenging for those without resources. In 1 John 3:17 (NIV), it is written, “If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?” Donating food or money helps to meet immediate needs and offers relief to those who are hungry.

Whether you are a person of faith, Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Hindu, etc., or not. It is a basic and fundamental principle to help those who are less fortunate.

“As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands, one for helping yourself, the other for helping others.” – Maya Angelou

” Feed the hungry, and help those in trouble. Then your light will shine out from the darkness, and the darkness around you will be as bright as noon.”- Isaiah 58:10 (NLT)

In summary, supporting Give Thanks, Give Meals is a profound way to help those who are less fortunate during a time of year that emphasizes gratitude and community. It aligns with Human and Biblical teachings on compassion, generosity, and community care. Your contributions provide immediate relief, foster community spirit, model generosity, and support the broader outreach efforts, reflecting the core values of love and service that are central to many faith traditions.

Jose Ortiz

Hello Potential Sponsor(s), 

My name is Jose Ortiz, I am currently 21 years old. Born and raised in Houston Texas. I am currently pursuing a Biology Degree and eventually want to pursue medical research specifically for people with arthritis. My grandmother, mother, and father have all been victims of this illness as well as countless other people. I aspire to dedicate myself to produce treatment plans for those who are currently going through that immense pain. As well as working on preventing arthritis. 

Growing up I was fortunate to have both my father and mother and to live a comfortable life, however I was not oblivious to those who were not as fortunate as me. My mother has always been someone with a charitable heart. During my younger years I remember she would cook meals and hand them out to our neighbors who were of an older age, who lived alone, or were struggling with economic hardship. Having her a role figure my heart for charity and help grew immensely. 

Thought the years I participated in many community outreach events throughout middle and high school. Whether it was helping at the food bank, helping elderly people clean up their yards, or visiting community centers and providing my help. I always enjoyed serving and seeing the visual change help can bring to a person’s face. 

This year, I was appointed MERCY coordinator for my Church. Mercy is the benevolent arm of our church; we help plan and participate in events to better help the community. This year I was able to plan an event where we provided a fun game in a nursing home. Helping elderly people feel loved and care for. Listening to their stories was incredible, knowing we helped create joy while they played bingo, and chess was an experience I will never forget. 

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out.

Contact the Organizer Contact the Organizer