20 Years of Thankful Giving with Shavonda Griffin
Since 1999 on Thanksgiving mornings, Shavonda Griffin has been serving dinner plates. Back then, after realizing how much food is likely thrown to waste and empathizing with those people who, for various reasons, may not be able to visit with family and friends, she decided to spend her Thanksgiving with people in need.
“It was such a touching experience that I asked God to allow me the opportunity every year moving forward. and every year after,”
states Mrs. Griffin. She and other volunteers prepare the food and serve until they run out. She says that they usually serve over one-hundred plates and sometimes up into the two-hundreds. “I’m surprised at how fast it seems to happen. There’s a need, and we have been blessed to be able to do a service that aligns with God’s purpose. I’m glad God has steered me in this direction”.
It’s not any formal organization, just volunteers, friends and giving hearts from all over this area, Manatee and Sarasota. They set up in Bradenton and over the years many people in the community come to know that she will be there. The appreciation and love seems to be mutual. Shavonda thanks all the numerous volunteers and wonderful people that has helped throughout the twenty years. ” It has been a great experience and blessing that we will continue to give as long as God shall have us to serve.”
