Memphis organizations are stepping up to provide Thanksgiving meals and support for their unhoused neighbors, bringing together volunteers and kind-hearted locals to ensure everyone has a place at the table during the holiday. One such group, Hospitality Hub at 590 Washington Ave., Memphis, TN, while closed on Thanksgiving Day, is not turning a blind eye to the needs of the homeless; the organization has arranged for a bus to transport individuals to a local restaurant at 11 a.m., ensuring they too can enjoy a holiday meal.
Another beacon of hope, Jesus People Church & Daughters of Zion located at 4400 Hickory Hill Road, has opened their doors from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. to provide Thanksgiving meals. For those seeking early assistance, The Salvation Army at 696 Jackson Ave., and the Memphis Union Mission at 170 Tillman Street are welcoming the unhoused with open arms throughout the day from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., respectively offering meals and a moment's reprieve from life's persistent urgency.
These efforts are underscored by the words of Commissioner Erika Sugarmon, who told Shelby County News, "Thanksgiving is a time to come together as a community and ensure no one is forgotten. Providing a warm meal to the unhoused is a small but meaningful way to show compassion and gratitude."
