Honoring our ancestors with gratitude, giving: Thanksgiving food drive and feast for the senior community

Provided.

Thanksgiving Food Drive and Feast for the Senior Community.

This Thanksgiving we come together not only to celebrate the season of gratitude, but also to honor the legacy of those who paved the way for us – our ancestors.

In Native American culture, elders are the keepers of knowledge and traditions, providing valuable guidance to younger generations. Elders are revered and treated with the upmost respect, and their needs remain priority. When honoring our ancestors, the connection with history, identity and spirit remain strong.

As we reflect on the sacrifices and wisdom passed down through generations, the community is coming together to show appreciation for our elders and senior community with two special events: a food drive and a Thanksgiving feast.

In the spirit of giving back and showing appreciation, we are hosting a Thanksgiving food drive to help support our senior community members. Our hopes are that no one goes without a healthy and nourishing meal this holiday season. The food drive will collect non-perishable items such as canned goods, boxed stuffing mixes, rice, pasta, yams, olives and gravy mix as well perishable items like turkey and fresh produce (potatoes, green beans, broccoli, carrots, etc.). Donations can be dropped off at the Healthy Hippie Tuesday – Sunday, 11 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. throughout the month of November. All food collected will be distributed and/or prepared for seniors in need within our community, ensuring they have the sustenance and support they deserve during this time.

On Wednesday, Nov. 27 at 2 p.m. (the day before Thanksgiving) we will honor our elders with a special Thanksgiving Feast at the Healthy Hippie. The Hippie will offer a festive, health-conscious menu that includes vegetarian, plant based and organic options. This event is not just a meal but a celebration of the rich history and cultural traditions that our elders represent. All senior citizens in our community are invited to join the feast at no cost. If possible, we ask that you call the Healthy Hippie and reserve a spot so we can get an idea of how many people will be in attendance and if anyone needs special accommodations.

Thanksgiving is a time to come together and show appreciation for the blessings we have in our lives. By honoring our seniors, we are not only acknowledging their past contributions but also creating meaningful connections across generations. Whether through the food drive or the feast, we are reminded of the magic of community support and compassion. This holiday season, let's take a moment to give thanks and honor to our ancestors ... their strength, resilience and love, and to pass that same spirit of care and generosity to those around us. After all, we belong to each other.

For more information, please contact Kim at the Healthy Hippie, (661) 822-9797, (661) 972-1749 or email [email protected]. The Healthy Hippie is located at 20418 Brian Way #2, in Old Town Tehachapi.