ROCHESTER, N.Y. — This Thanksgiving, communities across the nation are coming together to ensure that everyone has a meal to share. Through food drives and acts of kindness, the spirit of giving is touching the lives of those in need.

What You Need To Know

  • Dr. Paul Miller and Charter Champions distributed 150 turkeys to support their local community for Thanksgiving

  • Recipients expressed gratitude, emphasizing the importance of sharing a meal during tough times

  • Volunteers found the experience rewarding, as it strengthened connections and spread warmth within the community

Dr. Paul Miller, a man known for his vibrant personality and compassionate heart, understands the struggle of going without all too well.

“There were times when we did not have any food. There were times when we had to ration food out,” said Dr. Miller.

Now, he is paying it forward by giving over 200 turkeys to the community that shaped him. The effort is a partnership between his organization, Charter Champions, and other local groups.

“We knew there was going to be a lot of traffic and an opportunity to give back to a lot of people and support the west side of the city,” Miller explained.

For those receiving the turkeys, the impact extends far beyond the meal.

“A lot of people are struggling with bills, but it’s nice to know we’ll still have a meal together,” said community member Shante Golden.

Another recipient, Jeffery Lofton, expressed his gratitude. “Now it’s up to me to go put this together for my family and make sure they enjoy and be festive.”

The effort is also uplifting for the volunteers who make it happen. “Nobody should be ashamed of needing help. Seeing people from our community give back makes others feel warm and welcomed,” said volunteer Jhalysa Johnson.

Jared Jones, a Charter Champions employee, shared how meaningful the experience is for him as a volunteer.

“It really warms my heart to be doing something meaningful and giving back,” he said.

For community members like Lofton, the gesture carries a deeper sense of gratitude.

“His blessing is our blessing, I thank him,” Lofton added.

For Dr. Miller, the initiative is deeply personal.

“This is personal to me. This is my community. I’m from here,” he said.

The efforts of Dr. Miller, Charter Champions, and the dedicated volunteers serve as a reminder that even small acts of kindness can create lasting impacts, bringing people together in the true spirit of Thanksgiving.