It's time to fill Thanksgiving food baskets

Churches and groups spread the word.

By MICHELLE JONES, Times Correspondent
Published November 3, 2007

HUDSON - St. Martin's Episcopal Church is just one of many churches and organizations that are reaching out this Thanksgiving.

"Jesus taught us to love our neighbors," said Father William Dopp, pastor of the church. "We've been doing it for at least 10 years."

The annual drive at St. Martin's is aimed at providing Thanksgiving food baskets for families in need in the Hudson area. The baskets are spread among local agencies and are also given to families whose names are obtained from a local elementary school.

"This congregation has a history of outreach ministry; it is part of who we are," said Dopp, who has led this flock for three years.

On Sunday, the church at 15801 U.S. 19, will kick off the drive by requesting that people bring in food and money to meet this need.

Christian Social Services in Land O'Lakes is also raising funds to donate $25 food baskets to people in central Pasco County.

Everything from turkey to pumpkin pie will fill baskets that will be distributed to the less fortunate members of the community. People who want to help can drop off money at the center on U.S. 41 or mail a tax-exempt check to P.O. Box 783 Land O'Lakes, FL 34639.

Call (813) 995-0088 for directions.

For people who are just stretched this holiday season and would like a little help, there is SHARE, an outreach that provides food every month for families at a reasonable price.

The basic package is guaranteed to provide at least $35 worth of food for $18. At Thanksgiving a special box is offered for $25. Included in this is a turkey, pumpkin pie, stuffing mix, gravy mix, cranberry sauce, rolls, chopped broccoli and fresh fruits and vegetables.

There are 11 SHARE locations in Pasco County. People can call (727) 868-6178 or visit the Web site at shareflorida.org to find a location and time for sign-ups and pick-ups.

SHARE is a not-for-profit organization and encourages people to donate their time to worthy causes within the community in exchange for the groceries. There are no income requirements.

At the First Assembly of God Church, 36322 State Road 54, a free Thanksgiving dinner is planned.

Pastor David Pickerall says it will be the traditional turkey dinner with all the trimmings and will be served from noon to 2 p.m. Nov. 22.

People who can't get to the church can have the dinner delivered to their home.

All that is needed is a phone call to the church for a reservation or delivery option. Call (813) 788-3490.

"This is an opportunity to give back to the community and hopefully share the love of Christ," said Pickerall.

[Last modified November 2, 2007, 21:23:55]