A neighbor pauses for a photo during last year’s Thanksgiving DistributionEach year, CES holds a Thanksgiving Distribution just before the holiday. Gratitude emanates from those gathered - as was the case with one such family.

Ned* and his two children walked into CES one cold November day. The kids were excited when they saw a table of cookies and apple cider. This was the family’s first Thanksgiving without their mother, who had passed away from cancer. Their savings had been used to help in the last days of her life. Therefore, as Thanksgiving Day approached, Ned realized that they would not be able to afford the food they would usually cook.

Now, thankful that he was able to be a part of the CES Thanksgiving Distribution, Ned brought the family along. Volunteers milled around, engaging in conversation and making them feel comfortable. After they went through the line, a driver took the family with their Thanksgiving food home. Ned shared, “We were nervous coming, but what fun we had! It is wonderful to experience the love and care as well as the food. Although we will have a great Thanksgiving meal, we are most grateful for the community of CES.”

*names changed to protect client anonymity