By Mike Kinney
On Nov. 23, the community-based nonprofit Motivated 2 Help Others held its 6th annual Thanksgiving food-giveaway, serving more than 120 plates and hygiene kits to Richmond residents facing hardship.
Founded and led by Lejon Fahim Reese, the organization focuses on reaching people who cannot drive, have lost their homes or lack family support.
“The beauty of the work is being able to go to the people that can’t drive, that have lost their homes. Who have no resources or families to assist them in these times of need,” Reese said. “It could be any one of us out there in the cold.”
Volunteers served meals of spaghetti, turkey, chicken, green beans, macaroni, granola bars and bottled water. They also distributed hygiene kits containing soap, deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrushes, socks, towels and hand-sanitizer — with special kits made for women. “We also passed out hygiene kits … kits specifically made for women,” Reese noted.
The charitable effort operates without any grants, relying largely on out-of-pocket funds and community donations. The result was priceless.
“Family, friends and community volunteers came together to cook, clean and take the food to the people,” Reese said. “We packed our cars and took our love to the people.
To volunteer or donate food or hygiene items, contact Motivated 2 Help Others via their website at motivated2helpothers.org.
