Once a year, when Thanksgiving rolls around, some in Pittsburgh turn their focus away from the feasting tables-groaning with abundance within their homes, and toward the Light of Life Rescue Mission. This center, steadfast in its mission, embarks on an annual drive to ensure that the less fortunate are not overlooked during this festive time. According to a report by WPXI, this year marked the mission's 73rd consecutive Thanksgiving which over 1,000 individuals had a chance to enjoy a traditional, hot Thanksgiving meal.
The sheer volume of work involved in pulling off such a feat is not to be underestimated. In a statement reported by CBS News, Doug Smith, the Assistant Executive Director of the mission, said, "We always say Thanksgiving at Light of Life is a Pittsburgh tradition." This year's effort started early Monday with the distribution of 2,800 Thanksgiving dinner boxes to families in need, gearing up for the Thursday service. In the background, over 100 volunteers carried the load, chopping, stirring, and tending to the cooking from dawn until the meals were ready to be served, despite the ever-present need that grows each year.
The services provided by the mission extend beyond simple meal service. With Pittsburgh's winters being what they are, efforts are also in place to stave off the cold. This year, 700 winter jackets and 500 winter kits were distributed as part of the Operation Winter Warmth initiative. Smith explained to CBS News, "Our outreach center will be open throughout the day. We plan on handing out 700 winter jackets that were donated by donors, which was so thoughtful." Such gestures offer a reprieve for those bracing against the winter chill.
The mission's reach this Thanksgiving extended further, with food delivery to about 15 local high-rises and other areas where necessity made itself loudly known. Nearly 800 meals were prepared for this purpose, as volunteers took up the charge to hand-deliver sustenance and, with it, a glimmer of hope to each location.
