Church's Thanksgiving grocery giveaway struggles to meet rising demand

CityPoint Community Church is stepping up to help families struggling with food costs this Thanksgiving. The church now runs weekly grocery giveaways, offering essential items and gift cards to those in need. But with demand rising, organisers are asking the public for support to keep up. Every Sunday, the church hands out staple groceries and $50 Mariano’s gift cards to registered families. The programme is funded by church members and open to anyone who signs up by Thursday each week. Distributions take place at 10:15 a.m. and 12:15 p.m.

Pastor Demetrius Davis expects around 100 families to receive meals this Thanksgiving. Yet the need has grown so much that some have already been turned away. Long queues have formed outside the church during past giveaways, forcing difficult decisions. To avoid leaving families without help, the church is now calling for donations. Any monetary contribution will go directly toward buying more food and gift cards. Organisers hope the community will rally to ensure no one is left empty-handed.

The church’s programme relies on weekly sign-ups and public generosity to continue. Families can register online before each Thursday to secure their spot. Without extra support, organisers warn that more people may have to be turned away in the coming weeks.