STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Fellowship Baptist Church hosted its annual ‘Pre-Thanksgiving Dinner’ event, serving the community freshly cooked meals and distributing food baskets on Saturday, Nov. 22, from 12 to 4 p.m. It was located in Mariners Harbor at 3036 Richmond Terrace.
In partnership with the Staten Island Chapter of Jack & Jill of America Inc. for a second year, organizers focused on supporting those who continue to face food insecurity and rising grocery costs.
Maytee Thomas, a member of the Staten Island Chapter emphasized the importance of the event.
“It’s to help families in the community, now that this is a season of Thanksgiving, to give every family an opportunity to come together and have a meal and a basket filled with goods that they can go back to share with their families,” said Thomas.
Pre-Thanksgiving baskets and hot meals being served.Faith Archibald
Several community leaders were present to offer support, including Councilmember Kamillah Hanks, a Democrat who represents the North Shore, who donated multiple turkeys.
“This is an annual event that I always try to make a priority in our office, and not so much for the office, but for me personally,” said Hanks. “It’s so important to make meals because many folks don’t even have the wherewithal to cook the turkeys.”
Dina Farraj-Alesi, guidance counselor at PS 19, attended with her two daughters, ages 17 and 13, who helped serve hot meals throughout the afternoon.
“I think it’s wonderful that the community is being served in such a warm and loving way,” said Alesi.
Members of the Staten Island Chapter of Jack & Jill of America Inc., gathered for a photo.Imara Moore
Maria Jose, who attended with her family, shared her appreciation for the welcoming atmosphere and the support being offered. “It’s really nice, and it’s our first time attending,” she said through a translator.
Both Fellowship Baptist Church and the Staten Island Chapter of Jack & Jill of America Inc. remain committed to uplifting local families and investing in the wellbeing of the community they serve.
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