INDIANAPOLIS – Dozens of families in need and homeless youth gathered for a Thanksgiving dinner and clothing giveaway on Indy’s near east side Friday night.
It was a packed house at Cornerstone Lutheran Church as Outreach Indiana served those meals. The gathering came a few weeks ahead of Thanksgiving, though it is never too early to give a little thanks and of course lend a hand to those in need.
“In Indianapolis there’s an estimated 8,100 14- to 24-year-olds who experience homelessness every year,” said Outreach Indiana CEO Andrew Neal. “So for these youth, while we don’t know where they’re going to sleep tonight, we do know they’re going to get a warm meal.”
Neal said his group strives to end youth homelessness and provide struggling families with support. That included a winter clothing giveaway.
“I know I struggle being a single parent,” said Ayonna Beverly, who attended the event. “Taking care of two kids. I know I’m not going to be able to buy no coat. I didn’t have the budget to be able to get us coats. And I remember when I got my first coat, it lasted a little bit. It lasted. It’s still lasting.”