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‘Operation Blessing’ serves thousands with hot meals on Chicago's South Side
In the spirit of giving, an annual tradition on the city's South Side kept hearts—and stomachs—full on Tuesday.
CHICAGO - In the spirit of giving, an annual tradition on the city's South Side kept hearts—and stomachs—full on Tuesday.
A meal giveaway in Auburn Gresham was the latest installment of ‘Operation Blessing.’ It’s an event that is thoughtfully scheduled during the height of the holiday season—a time that often comes with financial challenges and personal struggles.
"A lot of people are going through rough times," said Fr. Michael Pfleger of St. Sabina Church.
Rooted in comfort and generosity, the meal means that 2,100 people will have food on the table Tuesday night.
Held at BJ’s Market on 79th Street and Racine Avenue, a line wrapped around the block when the doors opened—highlighting the need.
"There are so many people that just need a little bit of help and to have a hot meal like this, it really symbolizes the struggles people go through each and every day," said Amy Witherite, owner, Witherite Law Group and 1-800-TruckWreck.
‘Operation Blessing’ has been a vital part of the St. Sabina Faith Community for more than a decade. To make the giveaway possible, the church teamed up with the owners of BJ’s Market and Witherite Law Group.
"It’s our biggest event, we serve over 2,000 people, and we get ready for it weeks ahead of time," said John Meyer, chef and co-owner of BJ’s Market.
"People are very gracious, very thankful, I look forward to it every year," BJ’s Market co-owner Hank Meyer added.
The initiative aims to support unhoused community members, migrants, and anyone in need of a hot meal.
"Just how these small acts of kindness can warm someone’s heart up," said Ella Witherite.
Guests were served chicken, green beans, mashed potatoes, and banana pudding.
"It actually means a lot because right now, we’re in a tough predicament, we’re at a shelter," said Alana Mitchell, community member.
"It’s rough, but people are getting by, by the grace of God," added Carolyn Nicholas, community member.
Father Michael Pfleger of Saint Sabina Church emphasized the event’s dual purpose.
"People that come in here, we want them to get two things. We want them to get food, and we want them to feel valued and loved. One is as important as the other," Pfleger said.
St. Sabina’s calendar of events is full leading up to Christmas.
On Saturday, Dec. 14 from 9 a.m. to noon, the community is invited to attend ‘Breakfast with Santa.’ Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door for an ‘all-you-can-eat’ pancake and sausage breakfast.
On Monday, Dec. 16, St. Sabina’s ‘Toy Giveaway’ will be held in McMahon Hall at 7 p.m.
Then, on Saturday, Dec. 21, the parish will donate 1,000 turkeys to community members. The giveaway starts at noon, but you must have a voucher to participate.
Turkey vouchers are available at St. Sabina’s Social Services Office, located at 1120 W. 79th Street on a first-come, first-served basis. The office can also be reached by calling 773-846-3018.