Outreach Indiana’s 2024 Thanksgiving Celebration
At Outreach Indiana, we believe that Thanksgiving is more than just a holiday—it’s an opportunity to reflect, connect, and express gratitude for the community that helps us serve youth experiencing homelessness.
On November 8, we hosted an unforgettable early Thanksgiving dinner for youth and their families, bringing together over 170 guests at Cornerstone Lutheran Church. It was a night filled with warmth, delicious food, winter essentials, and, most importantly, hope.
Celebrating Community and Resilience
Our Thanksgiving event wasn’t just about providing a meal; it was about creating a space where young people could feel seen, supported, and surrounded by community. One attendee, Jeremiah, shared, "It’s more than a meal. It’s like food, fun, family. It’s like being home." For youth like Jeremiah, who face unimaginable challenges daily, these moments of connection are life-changing.
Brandon, a new father, reflected on how Outreach has supported him through life’s hurdles, helping him find a job and providing essentials like baby formula and transportation. "I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for Outreach," he said. Stories like his remind us why our mission is so critical.
Essential Support for the Winter Ahead
Thanks to generous donations, we distributed winter gear, including coats, hats, and gloves, to ensure our youth are prepared for the cold months. "Without this being here, I wouldn’t have the opportunity to get a coat, and I really do need one," said Fleurimond, 21. These practical gifts symbolize the love and care that drive our work every day.
Media Shines a Spotlight on Youth Homelessness
We’re incredibly thankful to the media for amplifying the voices of our youth and sharing the impact of this event. Their coverage not only highlighted the rising number of youth experiencing homelessness—an estimated 8,100 14- to 24-year-olds in Marion County—but also showcased the resilience and gratitude of the young people we serve.
FOX59: Local program provides food for homeless youth in Indianapolis
WTHR: Indianapolis homeless outreach delivers food, warm clothing to more than 170 people
WRTV: Non-profit hosts Thanksgiving dinner for Indy youth facing homelessness
Their commitment to shedding light on youth homelessness in Indianapolis inspires greater awareness and action.
A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Supporters
None of this would be possible without the incredible generosity of our community. Whether through financial donations, in-kind gifts, or volunteer hours, your support fuels our mission. As Andrew Neal, Outreach’s CEO, expressed, "We need every dollar, every bit of clothing, every impassioned volunteer to come out and rally around these youth and young adults because they’re worth it."
As we reflect on this event and look forward to our Youth Christmas Party, we are reminded of the strength and potential of every young person we serve. The need is real, but with your help, the hope is greater.
Join Us in Making a Difference
If you’re inspired by these stories of resilience and community, we invite you to get involved. Whether it’s through volunteering, donating, or spreading the word, your support transforms lives. Together, we can ensure every youth in Indianapolis has access to stability, warmth, and hope this holiday season.
Thank you for walking alongside us on this journey. Every act of kindness helps create a brighter future for the youth in our community.