Helping our neighbors

For many of us, Thanksgiving is a time of celebration and gratitude. We count our blessings, give thanks for food and clothing and shelter — and spend quality time with friends and family in the comfort of our homes.

For some of our neighbors, though, Thanksgiving and other holidays can be tough. Whether it be food insecurity, loneliness and isolation, or homelessness, there are those who struggle through these times.

We are blessed in our community with so many giving hearts. With people who look beyond their own comfort and find ways to serve. This Thanksgiving, as in years past, St. Peter's Episcopal Church is opening its doors to the community and hosting "An Open Table of Thankfulness and Love."  The church is partnering with the Coalition for the Homeless and Chandler's Hope for this Thanksgiving dinner, served at no cost. All are welcome, and all are encouraged to stay and eat with their neighbors. The volunteer signup for bringing food has been an overwhelming success, with all slots filled. Volunteers will be on hand to serve food, baste turkeys, toss salads, and help clean up afterwards.  Michele Holbrook with Chandler's Hope Clothes Closet will set up out in front of the church to offer clothing to those in need. She would love clothing donations and is especially in need of gently used or new sturdy shoes, and winter wear such as hoodies, sweatshirts, and coats. Chandler's Hope also accepts monetary donations.

Another one of our churches, Memorial United Methodist, has a food pantry kiosk that looks like a little library! They stock non-perishable food and hygiene items and are always looking for donations from the community.  The pantry is located on Seventh Street behind the church and operates year-round. If you want to learn how you can donate to this worthy cause, call the church office at 904-261-5769.

Giving thanks this time of year includes shared gratitude through service. We are thankful for the many people who shower our community with kindness and love!

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Zen Carver and her husband John have been Fernandina Beach residents for 14 years. Peggie Weeks is also a 14-year resident of Fernandina Beach.  

Peggie invites others in the community to share their stories of kindness and compassion. If you have a story you'd like to share here in the Fernandina Observer - about a neighbor or friend or business that showed you kindness - please contact her at pegweeks@gmail.com