At American Quality Homes, giving back has always been part of who we are. From the very beginning, Sean and I committed to using the blessings God has given us to bless others. Over the years, that has looked like donating roofs, fixing things for families in need, and supporting local causes however we could. But one special moment in the fall of 2023 changed everything and started something we never could have planned.
We were working on a project for a generous customer named Tom, someone we had helped before. When the job was finished, Tom came up to me with a smile and said how inspiring it was to see the good we were doing in the community. He reached into his pocket, handed me a gift, and said he wanted to contribute to the next act of giving. That single moment of generosity set something in motion that only God could have orchestrated.
It was just before Thanksgiving, and we felt called to use Tom’s gift to feed families. I called my mother-in-law, who is an expert coupon shopper, and asked how many meals we could buy. When she said fourteen, my heart swelled knowing that fourteen families would have a Thanksgiving meal because of one man’s kindness. We decided AQH would match Tom’s gift, doubling the meals to twenty-eight. Word began to spread, and before long, family, friends, and others in our community felt moved to join in. What started as one man’s giving heart multiplied into enough food for fifty-two families that first year.
On packing day, our kids helped box up meals and learned firsthand what it means to give selflessly. We reminded them that Jesus calls us to love our neighbors and care for those in need. Watching their excitement grow into true understanding was one of the greatest blessings of all. It reminded us that giving does not just change those who receive, it transforms those who give.
Every year since, we have continued the Turkey Drive in honor of Tom and his wife. Through the generosity of so many, we have now been able to provide meals for about 167 families and counting. What began with one act of kindness has become a ripple of love that continues to spread through our community, reminding us that when we give with a joyful heart, God multiplies the impact far beyond what we imagine.
From our family to yours, may God bless your Thanksgiving and fill your home with love, peace, and gratitude. May we all continue to be the hands and feet of Jesus, sharing hope and kindness wherever we go.
