INDIANAPOLIS — It is estimated nearly 8,000 young people experience homelessness in Indianapolis every year.
Thanksgiving is still weeks away, but the people at Cornerstone Lutheran Church are proving Thanksgiving is not just a day, but a feeling that should last all year long.
An event Friday night saw full plates, stuffed bellies and good times at the church near East New York and North Rural streets on the city's east side.
"I got me some turkey, some corn, some sweet potatoes," Jeremiah Fleurimond said.
When their bellies got full, they danced it off.
"It's more than a meal. It's like food, fun, family. It's like being home," John Thompson said.
Outreach Indiana invited 177 teens and young adults facing homelessness and their families to Friday's program, providing an opportunity to enjoy a free meal and pick out some free winterwear, like coats, hats and gloves.
"We want them to be warm as these winter months approach. We at least know going out of here tonight, they're going to have everything they need to be able to be ready for the winter," Outreach Indiana CEO Andrew Neal said.
Fleurimond, 21, picked out some mittens, a hat and a coat. He said he's going through some tough times and appreciates the thought of someone caring.
"Without this being here, I wouldn't have the opportunity to get a coat, and I really do need one," Fleurimond said.
That's something that Thompson knows all about. He said he was homeless for more than two years but was never cold, thanks to the coats he received from Outreach Indiana.
"Really, this is a lot of love," Thompson said. "You don't get no love on the streets. It's a hard place. This place gives you love, and it helps people."
Outreach Indiana is giving people like Fleurimond the strength to keep on going.
"Just never give up. Just keep on going, regardless of what struggles you're going through," Fleurimond said.
The need is real, but the hope is greater.
Outreach Indiana will have their annual Youth Christmas Party at the Rathskeller on Dec. 13.