Southland Church staff and volunteers are set to welcome thousands for its annual Thanksgiving Fall Food and Clothing Give Away on Friday, October 18.
Teena Cole, Southland staff person is also one of the event organizers, she says that the place has been buzzing with excitement this past week.
“Right now, (Wednesday) we’ve got volunteers packaging up fruit and vegetables for food hampers, and sorting through a mountain of clothes. We’re getting everything ready for the massive crowd expected on Friday.”
Cole explained that the church has had a donation trailer in the parking lot for about a month now. “The community has been so generous; we’ve hardly kept up with the donations.”
Cole notes that the need is huge. “We’re expecting around 3,000 people to show up. And that number doesn’t just represent individuals—it includes families of eight or ten, and neighbors who can’t make it by themselves. It’s a wonderful opportunity to bless people and meet real needs in our community.”
When asked about who can come and collect items, Cole emphasized, “This is a judgment-free zone. We want anyone who feels a need to come and see if we can help. It’s not just about food and clothing; it’s also about connection. Our volunteers are here to listen and encourage.”
Friday morning, things will kick off early. “Our church doors will open at 8:00 AM for coffee and cookies, with the actual giveaway starting at 9:00 AM. We want to make sure everyone has a warm place to wait—especially since there might be a bit of rain.”
Cole continued, “Once inside the building, each person will get a garbage bag to fill up with the clothing items that they need. They will also receive a food-hamper ticket, if they want one.”
She says, this year they have set the church like a department store, with different areas for clothing and necessities.
“It’s like IKEA meets a thrift store. You can shop through the kids' department, women’s and men’s sections, and even a shoe department. We’ve also got a special area this year for parkas.”
For anyone planning to attend, Cole asks that visitors park in the back of the building and enter through the southwest corner. “There will be signs to guide you; that’ll be the main entrance, and all other doors of the building will be locked.”
Cole reflects on the past giveaways, saying, “We’ve heard so many heartwarming stories over the years. One time, a parent, of a little girl, couldn’t afford a jacket, and we happened to have the exact pink one she wanted. Her face lit up when we found it! It’s moments like that that show just how much this means to people.”
She says they’ve had over 450 volunteer slots filled, with many church members dedicating their time to make this event happen. Cole says, “Some people even take holidays to help out. It’s amazing to see such selflessness.”
Southland Church is located at 190 PTH 52 W, next to Birchwood Funeral Chapel.
Everyone is welcome to the giveaway day on Friday, October 18 from 9am to 6pm.