Gospel Vision Music Ministry served more than 2,000 families last Thanksgiving, its founder says. Donations are now lagging ahead of its 24th annual giveaway.

SAN ANTONIO — Last year at this time, the nonprofit Gospel Vision Music Ministry had 1,000 turkeys ready for its annual Thanksgiving giveaway. This year, its founder says, it has about 50.

For the Rev. James Robinson, that shortfall means asking for help from the community his ministry has served for more than two decades.



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“Last year we were able to bless over 2,000 families with the turkey and the fixings, and today we only have about 50 turkeys,” Robinson said.

The ministry’s 24th annual Thanksgiving giveaway is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 21 at Greater Love Missionary Baptist Church.

Along with turkeys, the ministry typically prepares boxes of dinner rolls, stuffing, yams and green beans. Robinson said many families depend on the giveaway to put a holiday meal on the table, with some lining up as early as 5 a.m.


Donations needed to secure turkeys

Robinson said the ministry’s turkey supplier is waiting on a donation to move forward. Financial contributions and business sponsorships are the immediate need.

“The price of everything is going up, and I think this is why we have been at a little setback, but we still believe in God and we’re going to pray that everything works out in his favor,” Robinson said.

He also hopes business sponsors will join volunteers on the day of the giveaway, giving families a chance to meet the people helping make their Thanksgiving meals possible.

Robinson recalled serving 50 families at his first Thanksgiving giveaway. Last year, he said, the ministry helped more than 2,000. Its outreach also includes annual back-to-school and Christmas events.

Asked what would happen if donations fall short this year, Robinson said he would give what he could — even if it meant paying for meals himself.

“If I have to come out of my pocket to bless somebody and have a wonderful Thanksgiving, that’s what we’re going to do,” he said.


Honoring the women who inspired him

This year’s Thanksgiving giveaway will honor Robinson’s grandmother, Verna Mae “Mama” Boone, who raised him, and his mother, Joyce, who died in August.

“Two very, very special ladies in my life,” Robinson said.

Boone spent 50 years feeding people experiencing homelessness under the Interstate 35 bridge at Durango Street. She continued that work even while using a wheelchair.

Robinson said he is determined to carry on her legacy.

“Until the good Lord takes me home, I’m going to continue serving Mama Boone’s people,” he said.

Despite the donation shortfall, he remains hopeful.

“We put God in front of the wheel and we’re gonna ride this thing out,” Robinson said.


How to help

To donate or discuss a business sponsorship, contact Robinson at 210-777-1463 or REV.JAMES.ROBINSON1@GMAIL.COM.

The Thanksgiving giveaway is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 21 at Greater Love Missionary Baptist Church.


An ‘early Thanksgiving present’

Robinson also shared some good news: He said he received an email from the San Antonio Spurs offering 50 tickets to Tuesday’s season opener.

Robinson called the tickets “an early Thanksgiving present.”

He plans to announce pickup details on his Facebook profile.