NORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Restaurants, organizations, and churches across Central Arkansas spent Thursday making sure people in Central Arkansas had a warm Thanksgiving meal.
Seis Puentes and Kangaroo Cleaning Services along with volunteers were up bright and early to prepare Thanksgiving meals at Trinity United Methodist Church in North Little Rock.
“We think that everyone deserves something to eat, a plate fixed for them, and to smile on Thanksgiving,” said Executive Director of Seis Puentes, Raul Fernandez.
The meal giveaway started three years ago and has continued to grow.
“I had like a lot of personal changes and different stuff going on in my life. And I didn't have any Thanksgiving plans, and nobody invited me over. I love to cook so I was just like I gotta find some people to feed,” said the Owner of Kangaroo Cleaning Services, Megan Johnson.
Johnson and Fernandez have worked to reach more people. Making sure those who can't come to them still get a hot plate.
“Those are the people that we want to make sure get fed this Thanksgiving,” said Fernandez “So, we've been able to coordinate some delivery drivers, about half of our meals will be delivered.”
Organizers said the need has been even greater this year. Just this month, the United States Department of Agriculture ranked Arkansas in first place for people facing food insecurity.
“There are people out here that want to help, there are people out here that need a little bit of help and if we can find a way to channel that kind of energy, we can do some great things out here,” said Johnson.
Trinity United Methodist joined in on the effort this year and Pastor LaNita Daniels was happy to be part of the tradition.
“It is overwhelming, that we are able to be part of helping somebody have a full belly at Thanksgiving,” said Pastor Daniels.
Each person who is a part of this tradition hopes everyone can walk away with a smile, from the volunteers to the people getting a warm meal.
“It is definitely a testament to our community to see how we all come together just to serve each other,” said Fernandez.