Oliver Gospel Thanksgiving

(WOLO) COLUMBIA,S.C., — ” at thanksgiving time most of us don’t think even think twice about having loved ones to spend time around and for many of the people we serve, they don’t have a place like that to go.” but for this moment they do. more than 2 hundred people – some homeless – others just down on their luck packed into the oliver gospel mission for a thanksgiving feast. filling their bellies and lifting their spirit. ” macaroni and cheese, yams, nice glazed turkey. it makes me thankful for everything i have, thankful to be alive.” Jay Lewis was invited to join some friends for dinner – and while he says he plans to celebrate thanksgiving with his natural family thanksgiving night – this evening this was his family. …it was also an eye opening experience on how many people right here at home aren’t always walking off into a bright sunset – sometimes they’re taking it one day and meal at a time. “a lot of people are really homeless in this town and so it’s a good thing. I was hungry, i was real hungry because i came from poverty, but i am glad to see a lot of people getting food.” and serving it. alisa flum has been volunteering at the oliver gospel mission with her mother for years. for her it’s not just about filling a plate…but more about filling a need. “i’m from the columbia area and so sometimes i will be driving around and i will see people and wonder if i helped them. it’s such an impact to know that you’re the reason why they’re still moving and have hope.” This building has been standing here and serving columbia’s residents for 126 years. and while many people have come and gone over the years – President and CEO Wanye Fields says the mission has always been to give the homeless a hand up, not a hand out. so on a holiday when bringing thankful is on the forefront of the minds of many who are surrounded by family and friends and plenty of food…Fields says his joy comes simply from knowing he’s in a position where he can help. “one of the things none of us has control over is what we were born into. a lot of the people we serve don’t have the same opportunities we have.”