Lakeland's Food Pantry Overcomes Arson to Feed Families

Arson Incident and Arrest

Dais Abraham, the founder of New Testament Ministries, lost his food pantry on Combee Rd. S just days before Thanksgiving. A man named Gordon Nelson, 60, was arrested and charged with first-degree arson in connection with the fire. According to the arrest affidavit, Nelson denied starting the fire and claimed to be only an observer. However, an orange lighter was found in his left pocket.

The community's response was swift and united. They rallied behind Abraham, ensuring that around 1,000 families could still have a Thanksgiving meal. Abraham himself was amazed by the outpouring of support, stating, "I went from plan zero to plan 100. We had no idea what to do next, but within a short time, it became something much bigger than we could have imagined. This shows that our community is capable of standing together."

Continuing the Tradition

This year, Abraham is continuing the Thanksgiving tradition with a drive-thru event. This time, it will be held at Bartow High School. While he is still searching for a new permanent location for his food pantry, he is currently helping to supply the pantry at the school to meet the growing need.

The pantry is not only for students on Wednesdays but is also open after school for the entire community. On average, they help 150 people per week. Kerry Brown, the Assistant Principal at Bartow High School, has witnessed the significant increase in demand since the pantry started last year. "Our school is a Title One school, so all our students are on free or reduced lunch. The canteen helps supplement their food needs on evenings and weekends when food insecurities exist at home," said Brown.

Donations and Community Support

Abraham has been reaching out to other ministries and organizations for donations to ensure they can give away many turkeys and boxes full of sides again. "All the people from the community chipped in to make this happen. I believe it will happen again this year," he said.

The community's unity and support have been truly remarkable. As Brown put it, "Our community may be small, but our hearts are big. We will come together as a united front to make sure all families get to experience Thanksgiving like we know it."

The drive-thru will be located at Bartow High School's drop-off and pick-up location between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 22. If you're interested in donating items for the Thanksgiving drive-thru, you can contact Dais Abraham by phone at 813-643-3247.