WINONA, Miss. (WTVA) — The Winona Baptist Church celebrated Thanksgiving by giving to others on Thursday.

Members of the Winona church gathered after the Thanksgiving service to put together boxes full of warm food to give to residents in the area. 

Mark Williamson is the pastor at the Winona Baptist Church. He said these meals were put together to show love to his fellow Mississippians. 

“We want to do something different to actually have a prepared meal to people, particularly our older people and people that may not have a large family to gather with," said Williamson. "We know we can’t gather a lot today anyway but to just show more love in our community.”

The church provided pick-up and delivery of the boxed meals to the community members. 

Church Deacon Parrish Campbell said these boxes can be a source of hope for those hit by the tough times. 

“Stress can literally wear you down, literally drag you out, but it’s good to know that we have a place of refuge," said Campbell, "and we are here to help.”

Williamson believes the church's effort to serve to the community will show compassion from the church.

“By us actually preparing the meal today and serving the meal to people, I think it lets people know that we are actually a hand in feeding Jesus. We are called to serve,” Williamson explained.

Reverend Williamson said it was the first time the church made hot meals for the community. He plans to continue the boxed meals in the future.