Meals are the first step toward deeper engagement and real change says CityTeam Staff and Graduates
SAN FRANCISCO, Nov. 27, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- CityTeam, a non-profit organization serving the low-income and the unhoused population throughout the Bay Area, plans to feed over 2,700 people starting on Wednesday in San Francisco, and then again in Oakland and San Jose on Thursday for Thanksgiving. The annual event, known for its top tier holiday food menu is not the only thing people receive. Guests also receive items such as hygiene kits, sleeping bags, and in some locations clothing and a haircut. At the Oakland and San Jose locations, guests can watch their favorite football teams live on TV as they enjoy a festive holiday meal and build meaningful relationships.
While the Bay Area has the third largest homeless population in the U.S. and up to 38,000 spend the night on the streets most nights according to a report by Mckinsey & Company, real change happens through these annual events put on by organizations such as CityTeam. Micro-engagements such as holiday meals help build relationships and provide a safe haven for those who need it most. When trust is built over time, that is when the real change can happen.
"I never thought it would be such a good meal. And I never expected such good people to serve me and talk to me. It made the best Thanksgiving– the best one I've ever had, maybe!" says Richard, a Thanksgiving guest.
Throughout the year CityTeam provides resources for those who are unhoused, low-income families, seniors, and women who've suffered through domestic abuse. The men in CityTeam's year-long residential program are currently working to transform their lives. Their help makes the annual holiday event possible. They are assigned roles and responsibilities in the kitchen dining room to bring the special day to life.
"I was homeless, on the streets, and hungry. Being able to serve a hot nutritious meal to people who are in the same situation I was once in is a blessing. I want them to find the same love and resources that I found at CityTeam," says Jeremy, a proud CityTeam graduate.
Whether it's hot meals, groceries, shelter, housing, restorative programs, or safe haven, the organization impacts the lives of nearly 1,000 men, women and children in their restorative residential programs annually, and serves on average 6,000+ households every month at their Bay Area mobile pantries.
"We have seen thousands of individuals come through our program and begin a new chapter in their life, myself included. They pursue careers, reunite with their families, and seek sobriety as restored individuals excited for their second chance," said Melanie Davis, graduate turned VP at CityTeam. "Without the support of the public and corporations, we can't do what we do. Each life we help restore is counted as a huge success. Thanksgiving meals are so important because they provide pathways to our life-changing programs."
Founded in 1957, the organization continues to serve the community with the support of companies and private donors. To learn how to volunteer or donate to CityTeam, visit CityTeam.org. Follow for more updates on Instagram.com/cityteam and facebook.com/cityteam today.
Media Contact
Angela Baldwin, CityTeam, 1 6502703082, [email protected], www.cityteam.org
SOURCE CityTeam
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