DE: Local ministry to provide Thanksgiving feast for homeless

GEORGETOWN, Del. – “This is family. They became my family,” said The Shepherd’s Office patron William Keyser.

For many people, Thanksgiving is a time for families to come together to spend the holiday eating, laughing, and enjoying each other’s company. But for those without a home it can be one of the most difficult times of the year.

“A lot of people don’t have families, a lot of people are out here homeless like myself so without these guys we wouldn’t have nowhere to go,” said another patron, Fred Williamson.

That’s why every year The Shepherds Office, a local ministry in Georgetown, makes it their mission to provide those who are homeless in the are an opportunity to be a part of their family. By spending Thanksgiving day together.

“Being here at the Shepherd house is one of those places that you know you can come here and the people really care about you and want to help you,” said Walter Ross.

With pecan pie, other baked goods, a turkey and more, those we spoke with at the Shepherd’s Office say they’re looking forward to Thursday’s feast and celebrating with one another.

“We’ll be able to serve 18 at a time, and we’re expecting about 60-70 people,” said office organizer Jim Martin.

Those who frequent the Shepherds Office say the Thanksgiving tradition is a reminder for them that they do matter, and that they have people who are supporting them.

“When they’re out there everyday on their own, after a while they start becoming complacent, feeling desolate, that they’ve been rejected by society,” said Keyser.

And they add that when they’re together they’re taught this simple phrase:

“No matter what is going on in their life, or how bad it gets, there is always hope, and there’s always love out there,” said Keyser.

Officials say that the ministry is hosting their thanksgiving meal starting at 11 AM. They add that anyone is welcome to come and celebrate.