By Corbin Hubbell
Social Media Coordinator
Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska (CSS) recently extended a helping hand by distributing Thanksgiving food baskets to those in need.
The collective initiative unfolded across the Auburn, Hastings, and Lincoln CSS locations.
“Every year, the distribution of Thanksgiving Day food baskets at our offices in Auburn, Lincoln and Hastings brings joy to our clients as well as to all the volunteers, donors, and staff who participate,” said Katie Patrick, executive director of CSS. “It’s just one of the ways we are able to bring hope to those in need throughout the year. Thank you to everyone across the diocese who helps make this possible,” she said.
Students from St. John the Apostle School in Lincoln contributed to the effort by painting and packing more than 150 grocery bags with positive messages for the recipients.
On the day of giving, CSS operated in the morning and again in the afternoon. Volunteers from across the diocese played a pivotal role. Noteworthy among them were First Lady of Nebraska Suzanne Pillen and Bishop James Conley of the Catholic Diocese of Lincoln at the Lincoln location.
Suzanne Pillen helped distribute canned goods, bread, turkeys, and more. Bishop Conley carried bags of goods and frozen turkeys to parked cars.
One woman who received food told Bishop Conley, “I have never had a whole turkey before!”
Bishop Conley said the charitable acts benefit both those giving and receiving.
“It’s very important for us as Catholics to reach out to the poor and see the face of Christ in the distressing disguise of the poor, as Mother Teresa would always say,” Conley said.
The efforts underscore Catholic Social Services’ commitment to reaching out to those in need, particularly during the holiday season. CSS is preparing another day of giving this Advent season, in anticipation of Christmas. Starting Nov. 27, requests for Christmas food baskets can be made by phone, or by stopping into the offices in Lincoln or Auburn. Orders will be filled while supplies last.
Photos by Corbin Hubbell
