TYLER, Texas (KLTV) – CrossPointe Church brought together nearly 100 church members to help distribute 175 Thanksgiving packages to families around Tyler.

“Things are expensive. Meals are expensive, so hopefully these meals can just help them get a little head start, get a little bit to where they might need to be, especially for the holiday season,” said the executive pastor of CrossPointe Church.

Each house receives a turkey and two bags full of side dishes.

Pastor Steve Smith said this annual giveaway is important to ensure they can help as many families as possible put meals on their tables this Thanksgiving.

“It’s the time of year to celebrate, to come together as a family, and some people just can’t do that. So this is a way for us to feel like we can be the hands and feet of Jesus to give food, where they can celebrate Thanksgiving and have a good time as a family,” Smith said.

The importance is also felt by residents, as Jonath Hurtado, who has grandchildren to feed during the holidays, said it would help him and his wife in terms of time and money.

“This gift shows love and the spirit is all about Thanksgiving. Mom and I have 12 grandchildren, so that helps me a lot,” Hurtado said.

For Smith, the reactions of people like Hurtado, who now have a guaranteed meal, are what spark the holiday spirit.

“We try to help people, meet their needs where they are. So, doing that, it makes us feel good, in that we’re doing the things that we think we’re called to do,” Smith said.

The remaining turkeys and sides from the giveaway will be distributed to other families in need at the church.

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