MISSION: THANKSGIVING 
Requested donations:
Non-perishable food
Soft drinks and bottled water
Frozen deer or beef
Sleeping bag and blankets
New underwear, socks of all sizes for men, women, and children
Coats, shoes, and clothing of all sizes for men, women, and children
Travel size personal hygiene items
Monetary donations
MORE INFORMATION: Contact Mark Hewitt, executive director of Love & Care Ministries, 325-670-0246

FRIDAY, Nov. 21
ABILENE
7 a.m.-7 p.m.
Arrow Ford, 4001 South First Street
MERKEL
When: 7 a.m.-7 p.m. 
Where: Love & Care Ministries Merkel facility, 906 N. Third St., Merkel 
CLYDE
When: 7 a.m.-7 p.m.
Where: Love & Care Ministries, 605 S. First St., Clyde
ANSON
7 a.m.-7 p.m.
Where: Love & Care Ministries, 731 23rd St., Anson

By Loretta Fulton

“What are we going to do?” is a question Mark Hewitt has heard over and over again since the government shutdown began.

And although it has officially ended, many people are still struggling. The shutdown, which began on Oct. 1, affected the payment of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits or food stamps. That left many people calling on local food pantries like Love & Care Ministries, which Hewitt founded and leads as executive director. 

Hewitt’s response to the question is to let people know that Love & Care Ministries will help as many people as it can. The 26th annual Mission: Thanksgiving, the ministry’s largest fundraiser of the year, is more important this year than ever, with many people affected by the shutdown asking for help for the first time. 

“One thing we are really needing this year is non-perishable food,” Hewitt said. “But if someone wanted to donate dollars, that goes a long way also.”

Hewitt asks that people prayerfully consider becoming a Wall of Love sponsor by donating $500 or more. 

“But always remember,” Hewitt said, “any donation, big or small, becomes a great blessing to those we serve.” 

Loretta Fulton is creator and editor of Spirit of Abilene