During these challenging times, the community means everything. Two weeks before the Thanksgiving holiday, The Seed of Abraham Church, located on the west side of Humboldt Park, gave away over 130 turkeys and bags of groceries to families in need on a Saturday morning. This has been a growing tradition that Pastores Miguel and Mayra Dominguez, along with their congregation, have been doing for the community every year. This year’s turkey donations were more challenging due to the pandemic. However, with the help of the Illinois Network of Charter Schools, who donated 30 turkeys, teachers from Aspira Charter School, Goya, Aldi, Target, Whole Foods, La Bomba, SOATeam, and members from the community, this event was possible.

The community truly came together to provide donations and resources. Dozens of families who attended received a turkey, a flower from Rocio’s Flower & Gift Shop, and a bag of groceries containing milk, cans of food, soap, coupons, rice, and more. Manuel Jimenez, a teacher of ASPIRA, reached out to several other teachers and members of the community to coordinate and give donations as well. Manuel stated, “It’s about the community. We need to make sure families have a nice meal during the holidays.” Pastor Dominguez was grateful for the service that local community stores, members, and organizations could offer to the community of Humboldt Park. Pastor Dominguez said, “We are more than just a church, but a service to the community.” This was a testimony of a community coming together in order to bring some joy in people’s lives.