The Powell Street Community Center was filled with smiles and gratitude on Tuesda, November 25th, as members of The Black Tie Guys, a youth mentoring program sponsored by Tab-N-Action, Inc., distributed “Blessing Packages” to dozens of families just in time for Thanksgiving.
Each package—stuffed to the brim with everything needed for a full holiday meal—contained a large turkey, rolls, pies, dressing, sauces, peas, and other ingredients for a traditional Southern Thanksgiving feast. The packages were provided to families from lists compiled by community leaders Marie Brown and State Representative Pat Moore.
As recipients entered the center, they were greeted with warm laughter and a cheerful chorus of “Happy Thanksgiving from Miller’s Funeral Home and the Black Tie Guys!” echoing through the hall. One grateful recipient remarked, “The young men were so polite—they even carried our packages to the cars for us.”
The project was made possible through the generosity of Cleo Miller and Vicki Lang of Miller Funeral Home, and Eddie Hakim, president of Love N Care, Inc. Their donations made it possible to supply well-stocked boxes for every selected family.
In addition to the meal packages, the Black Tie Guys also assembled hygiene packs to be distributed by Mrs. Emma West’s Second Street Ministry during her annual Thanksgiving Day outreach to the homeless. The packs—separated for male and female recipients—include items such as lotions, toothbrushes, toothpaste, tissues, and other essentials to bring comfort to those in need.
Cleo Miller and her daughter personally greeted every family, sharing hugs, smiles, and words of encouragement.
Mrs. Miller reflected on the day, saying, “Miller Funeral Home has always believed in giving back some of the love this community has shown us over our 90 years of service. It’s a joy to see young people learning that real leadership begins with service.”
Hakim said God has blessed his family in many ways and the Love N Care Corporation enjoys the opportunity to bless others.
Mentors Roger and Shari Thompson and Joslyn Wright joined the young men in preparing and distributing the packages, ensuring that every family left the center with both full hands and full hearts.
As the last cars pulled away, the sound of laughter, gratitude, and holiday cheer lingered in the air—a testament to what happens when generations come together to serve others in the spirit of Thanksgiving.
