The Lynchburg community gave back to those in need in big ways on Thanksgiving, making sure many were well-fed and happy.
Several groups served food to the hungry on Thursday.
Lynchburg Daily Bread
Lynchburg Daily Bread serves hot meals seven days a week, and holidays are no different.
Kitchen Manager, Marvin Grunshie said there's something special about their group.
"Lynchburg Daily Bread is a special place because honestly it gives all of the community a place to feel welcome, accepted, and we take care of them seven days out of the week," said Grunshie.
Board of Directors member, Alex Collier, agrees they have great volunteers.
"They recognize the work that they're doing and the importance of it and there's just a joy of being able to give back to folks in our community," said Collier.
Grunshie said that this year, he's thankful for being able to give back to the community and serve those in need.
Mitch Richards
Last year, Mitch Richards and his girlfriend took it upon themselves to deliver 30 meals throughout Lynchburg on Thanksgiving.
This year, the couple partnered with 5th Street Baptist Church to feed 100 people.
Richards said that he does this to honor important people in his life.
"My mother passed away on Thanksgiving when I was about 11 years old, so Thanksgiving has not been a good thing for me," shared Richards.
He shared that when he moved to Lynchburg in 2019, he connected with a woman who served others. When she passed away last year, he wanted to continue her work and his mother.
"We wanted to do something to honor them and what better thing to do is give fortune to the unfortunate," said Richards.
Pastor of the 5th Street Baptist Church, Stuart Jones, is proud to see young people like Richards take action to make our community a better place.
"You have to do more than talk about it, you have to be willing to do something about it. Once again, they're here in place ready to serve their brothers and realizing even as fortunate as they are, it could be taken away from them just like that," said Jones.
Meals on Wheels
Meals on Wheels was hard at work, delivering meals to hundreds in the community.
Steven Goff is one who received one of these holiday blessings on Thanksgiving. On days like today, he remembers his late wife, who he loved spending holiday meals with.
"The joy of having her and having a great meal," reflected Goff.
He said, although holidays without her are hard, the dinner he was given by Meals on Wheels, makes it a little easier.
Executive Director, Kris Shabestar said that is their mission.
"We really try to show that we make a difference and care about the people we are serving," said Shabestar.
Volunteer, Laura Wise, shared this sentiment,
"I think we can spread cheer anytime we can. Let’s do it. Make people happy. There is a lot of sadness in the world so if you can do something to make people happy, go for it," said Wise.
Unstoppable YES Ministries
Dorothy Smith Dillard started Unstoppable YES Ministries 23 years ago. Ever since, she has served hot meals on Thanksgiving Day in Lynchburg.
She said many organizations will offer Thanksgiving meals before the actual holiday so that they can enjoy the day with their families.
Smith Dillard said that's exactly why she chooses to show up on the holiday.
"It's a blessing to sacrifice. There are many things I could be doing, but if we do, you know, have any resources to maybe to help them, we will," said Smith Dillard.
She also serves around Christmas time, going around to low-income apartment buildings to bless children and give them little treats.