'Tis the season for giving in Milwaukee

Giving thanks by helping others

MILWAUKEE -- 'Tis the season for giving. A basketball star with local roots teamed up with area organizations to help feed families for the holidays. Devin Harris may be in Atlanta playing basketball, but his heart is still in Milwaukee.

Feeding more than 250 families takes teamwork. The actions of the volunteers along with Devin Harris’ performance off the court are earning praises. "Them providing for the less fortunate is a great thing to do,” said Theresa Lesley.

Milwaukee Health Services along with Molina’s Healthcare and Devin Harris’ 34 Ways to Assist Foundation joined together to give patients Thanksgiving dinner, complete with all the trimmings.

John Milton the Director of Operations for the Devin Harris Foundation added, “For Devin it’s all about giving back. He truly sees the need, being brought up here and being kept up to date. He wants to be able to bless people and make their holidays a little special if possible."

These volunteers said giving back is important especially for those who are trying to make ends meet.

Clover Barnes with Milwaukee Health Services added, “Many of our patients are under-served or under-insured and cannot afford to keep a lot of healthier foods on the table. So we like to partner with different organizations to bring as much health and support as we can to them.”

A little thoughtfulness goes a long way. Barnes said the food giveaway is vital, “These events are very important especially with the economy and its downturn and people being without jobs. These events are sometimes the only food people can get. They serve their families sometimes for weeks because they portion them out.”

Thanks to the event, folks like Dillon and Lesley will have a brighter holiday. “Anything I can get helps me. I appreciate everything. I’m grateful,” said Dillon. Lesley added, “Every little thing counts.”

The morning was full of kind hearts filling bellies and spirits. “I’m feeling blessed, I thank God,” said Dillon.

The organizations have more than 4,000 pounds of food to donate and will do so in the 8 upcoming events around the state. Saturday’s event also offered an opportunity for folks to get any screenings and shots needed.