Early Thanksgiving: 140 in need celebrate with dinner

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Approximately 140 Aurora-area people in need celebrated an early Thanksgiving dinner Saturday, Nov. 9.

Kids eye a myriad of desserts offered at “Feast of Hope,” an early Thanksgiving dinner and clothes giveaway Saturday, Nov. 9, at Wesley United Methodist Church in Aurora. Aurora-based non-profits Lv Cares Foundation and Hand-in-Hand Humanity Haven, Inc., co-sponsored the event open to residents in need. Al Benson/The Voice

“Feast of Hope,” a dinner with all the trimmings and winter-clothes giveaway, was co-sponsored by Lv Cares Foundation and Hand-in-Hand Humanity Haven, Inc., Aurora-based nonprofits. Sit-down and delivery dinner options were offered.

LaVern Allen, Lv Cares president/CEO, said 77 guests were served at the sit-down version at Wesley United Methodist Church in Aurora. Another 65 guests received home deliveries. Leftovers were sent to Hesed House homeless shelter in Aurora, Allen said.

He added that the event succeeded thanks to more than 20 volunteers who contributed time and food. The menu included turkey, chicken legs, pasta, mac and cheese, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, Puerto Rican rice, deviled eggs, corn casserole, sweet potatoes, pizza, arroz con leche, salad, green beans, chicken fajitas, pork roast, green spaghetti, beverages and homemade and purchased desserts. Plates and utensils were also donated.

Volunteers sort winter gear donated to “Feast of Hope,” an early Thanksgiving dinner and clothes giveaway Saturday, Nov. 9, at Wesley United Methodist Church in Aurora. Aurora-based nonprofits Lv Cares Foundation and Hand-in-Hand Humanity Haven, Inc., co-sponsored the event open to residents in need. Al Benson/The Voice

According to Wesley pastor Rev. Tammy Scott, “Wesley congregants were happy to work with LV Cares and Hand-in-Hand Humanity Haven, Inc., to provide a place for members of the community to receive a hot meal and warm clothes for winter.”

Lv Cares is a community-focused organization dedicated to providing support and assistance to those in need. Through various programs and initiatives, it aims to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals and families in the local area,

Hand-in-Hand is an aspiring nonprofit that provides resources to individuals and families throughout the Chicagoland area.

—Al Benson

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