Metro woman trades Black Friday deals for helping feed the homeless
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — This Thanksgiving, while many enjoy family gatherings and big meals, one metro woman is focusing on those who don't have that luxury—the homeless.
Julie Lombard says she got her inspiration by looking at Black Friday deals.
"I don't need anything, I have a warm place to sleep, I have all that I need and so I would rather use my money to help other people and it was told to me that if you wait until you can help everyone, you end up helping no one, so start where you can and this is where I can," said Lombard.
Lombard is starting to help in her kitchen by making hot meals for those who need it most.
"I wanted to make sure I give them a full Thanksgiving meal because I was thinking of all the things I'm going to eat and maybe overeat on Thanksgiving with my family," said Lombard.
Lombard and her sister spent the morning filling 50 boxes with ham, mashed potatoes, green beans, mac and cheese and pumpkin pie.
She also tied a Bible verse to each utensil to hand out.
The meals were paired with essentials such as blankets, socks and hand warmers to help the homeless stay warm.
The Lombards spent the afternoon driving around the city, giving to anyone they saw in need.
"Even if it is 50 people that we're feeding, that's 50 people that are getting a warm meal today that maybe hadn't eaten or just being said hello to," said Lombard.
Lombard says while this kind act makes her feel good, it's not about her.
"It's about what I can do for other people and I'm just doing what I'm called to do and it's to serve others," said Lombard.
Lombard hopes others feel inspired to make the season a little brighter for those in need.
She says the effort doesn't require much, just a little time, money and the willingness to give back.
Lombard plans to do this next year as well, but on a larger scale. She would love to see 50 meals turn into 500.