2025 Thanksgiving with Bethany Evangelical Lutheran Church

On Saturday morning November 22, 2025, volunteers from Bethany Evangelical Lutheran Church welcomed members of Food for Friends and dozens of local families for a heartwarming turkey giveaway, aking this event especially significant as it marked Food for Friends’ first time donating to the church. The initiative aimed to support low-income families residing in the east side of Chicago, offering not just food but also hope and community spirit during the holiday season.

Tables brimmed with turkeys and festive fixings as several organizations worked side by side to ensure every family received what they needed to celebrate Thanksgiving with dignity and joy. The collaboration was seamless and filled with gratitude, as both first-time and long-time volunteers made everyone feel welcome.

Our involvement brought fresh energy and additional resources, allowing the church to expand its reach. The generosity shown set a positive precedent for future partnerships, and many expressed hope for ongoing collaboration to further benefit the community. As Food for Friends marked its first donation to Bethany Evangelical Lutheran Church, their combined efforts made a tangible difference in the lives of east side families, reminding everyone that together, we can uplift those in need and foster a brighter future for all.