ORLANDO - The tight economy is affecting how some families will celebrate Thanksgiving this holiday season and possibly wondering if they’ll have  food to give thanks for.  That will not be a concern for at least 100 families in the Orlando area, thanks to 100 Black Men of Orlando Inc. and Publix Super Markets. Paul Snead Jr. of the 100 Black Men says “It is the goal of our organization to provide for at least 100 families to experience a happy Thanksgiving. Many of them would not have the opportunity without this support.”
     Over the past 5 years Publix has partnered with the organization in this much needed effort. “We owe a great deal gratitude to Publix Super Markets for their outreach in the community.” says Snead.
     Ministries across Central Florida are working to secure food to provide for those in need during the holiday. Every 4th Saturday of the month hundreds of people come to Mt. Sinai Baptist Church in Orlando hoping to be fed more than just the word of God. “We have 8 acres of land and at 6:15 they start lining up and the line gets longer every time.” Larry Mills is pastor of Mt. Sinai and is one of the churches getting the support of 100 Black Men. “It provides families with hope. It’s a light in darkness. It says don’t give up, someone is watching.”
     This year, donations for the Thanksgiving feast have escalated at Mt. Olive C.M.E. Church where Dr. Uylee Waugh  is pastor. This is a welcomed blessing, she says. “This is a tremendous blessing. The fact that we have help outside of our own is a blessing from the Lord.”
     According to Snead, the churches are selected on a random basis in an effort to touch various segments of the community. With the economy down and the need for food up, everyone is thankful for the meal given to those who receive it.