Chief Beck joins LA Mission to Serve Thanksgiving Meal

 November 21, 2012 - The homeless on Skid Row were treated to a special Thanksgiving meal at the Los Angeles Mission. Chief Charlie Beck alongside LAPD officers joined volunteers from the community, the entertainment industry and elected officials in serving thousands at the midday event.

The meal was served on a closed portion of 5th Street in downtown Los Angeles, the heart of Skid Row.Tents for serving were set up, along with specially decorated tables and seating.

The Los Angeles Christian Health Centers provided foot washing and examinations to nearly 400 of the day’s guests. In addition to getting their feet washed, physicians, nurses and other medical staff did examinations and minor procedures to relieve foot issues. Those with more serious problems were referred to the clinic for appointments. The clinic partners with the Mission for medical services for area residents.

The Mission was started as a soup kitchen for depression era men in 1936. Those who  came to the Mission then would be very surprised at the quality of the food being served this Thanksgiving. The Mission still serves meals each day, and emergency shelter, but the primary work of the Mission in 2012 is helping men and women restore their lives and get back on their feet. 

For more than 75 years, the Los Angeles Mission has served the people of Skid Row, providing emergency services such as shelter, food, clothing, as well as professional medical and dental services. In addition, the Los Angeles Mission also offers long-term residential rehabilitation programs including education, job training/placement, transitional housing and counseling. Visit www.losangelesmission.org to help.