In 2011 a local businessman, Rick Gatewood, was inspired to help those in our area during Thanksgiving.  Rick contacted several other people in the area about assisting with this worthy project. Other local people, businesses, churches and schools quickly got involved and realized there was a need right here in our community.

On November 23, 2011, the first Families Feeding Families event took place at Christbridge Church. Over 500 meals were served to those that attended. Meals were taken to local nursing homes and volunteers ate with the attendees. Free haircuts, face painting, and children’s activities combined with goodie bags were a big hit!

The second Families Feeding Families occurred on November 21, 2012 took place at the same location. That time 800 people were served on site the traditional Thanksgiving meal, and 200 more meals were donated to Waller Assistance and Restorations Ministries. More free haircuts were done and the number of goodie bags available expanded. More children’s activities were offered and again face painting was a huge hit. The number of volunteers also grew significantly. Families came out to volunteer together. Local school and civic groups came out as part of their community service. A homeless man walked miles to attend and a mentoring relationship was established with one of our volunteers.

The 2013 event was the third annual one and it took place on November 27th. Approximately 1,000 people were served the traditional Thanksgiving meal with all of the trimmings. More haircuts were given and the children loved the activities. Meals were also taken to nursing homes and shut ins. Homeless people also received meals as volunteers drove to locations where homeless people in our area congregate along Highway 249. More churches got involved and again the number of volunteers grew.

We anticipate this event continuing until there is not a need.

If you need information on volunteering, donating or need more information on the meal, send us an email at familiesfeedingfamiliestb@gmail.com .