NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) — Four locations across Hampton Roads were filled with the sights of gratitude Thursday as Revive Community of Virginia, in partnership with Calvary Revival Church, served free Thanksgiving meals to hundreds.
The outreach extended beyond food, offering groceries, winter coats and even giveaways of bikes and mattresses.
“Our brunch is open to anyone who needs a hot meal,” said Alexander Macbeth, executive director of Revive Community. “If you’re displaced, homeless and don’t have anywhere to stay — if you’re in the military and you don’t have any family in the area or perhaps, you’re here by yourself in the area, you don’t have anywhere to eat or you might be a college student stuck on campus.”
The event also showcased curated meals, ensuring guests received not just sustenance but comfort.
Revive Community, a nonprofit launched in 2021 by Calvary Revival Church, aims to “build bridges and destroy barriers” for those in need, Macbeth said. Events like Thursday’s reflect its commitment to turning faith into action.
“We believe our faith is an active faith,” said David Osborne, lead pastor at Calvary Revival Church. “It’s one thing just to sing songs and preach messages, but like Dr. King said, people are hungry, people are starving. People need clothing. And so, we’re thankful … but we’re really focused on meeting the needs of the now.”
At each location, volunteers worked to serve meals and share resources. Families could get groceries and coats, addressing both immediate and long-term needs.
“They’re able to get things they need for their families because it’s getting cold,” said Pamela Munden, pantry manager at Calvary Revival Church. “We’re thankful and grateful to give.”
For many, the event went beyond meeting physical needs – it offered a sense of belonging.
“Well, one of the things I thought about is community. That’s another need people have,” said Lydia Osborne, co-lead pastor at Calvary Revival Church. “We see everyone as family. We want to treat you like family. We want to have good food, good music, good vibes, enjoy each other and have good conversation. And so, we value that at Calvary.”
The Thanksgiving outreach is part of Revive Community’s year-round efforts. The organization hosts a food pantry every first, second and third Saturday, serving 150 to 200 people each session.
Anita Wyche, program director for Revive Community said that with rising food prices they are able to see an increase in demand, “We are always there trying to fill that gap.”
For guests and volunteers alike, the Thanksgiving event exemplified the power of giving, gratitude, and faith in action.