Dear Friend,

In October 1863, in the midst of a ravaging Civil War that seemingly had no end, President Lincoln issued a proclamation calling for a national day of Thanksgiving, imploring the nation to set aside a day to reflect on the blessings life bestows on us even in times of great challenges and reminding the American people to remember those whose lives were less fortunate.

The year that is drawing towards its close, has been filled with the blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies. To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the source from which they come, others have been added, which are of so extraordinary a nature, that they cannot fail to penetrate and soften even the heart which is habitually insensible to the ever watchful providence of Almighty God…

It has seemed to me fit and proper that they should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and one voice by the whole American People.…And I recommend to them that while offering up the ascriptions justly due to Him for such singular deliverances and blessings, they do also, with humble penitence for our national perverseness and disobedience, commend to His tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife in which we are unavoidably engaged.

Thanksgiving is about showing gratitude for all of the wonderful things we get to enjoy in our lives, from family and friends to a bountiful table, but it’s also about expressing that gratitude by giving back. Despite the richness of our lives, we know that there are still many in great need: working families feeling the pinch of tough economic times; thousands of unhoused children living in shelters across our city; veterans sleeping on street corners; and asylum-seekers arriving here with nothing but the shirts on their backs and a desperate plea for a chance at the American Dream.

If you have the means to donate to a local charity or food pantry, your contribution is needed now more than ever. Anything you can give will make a big difference. Make a donation to City Harvest or Breaking Ground to help provide food and housing to New Yorkers in need this holiday season.

If you find yourself in need this year, we’re here to help. FoodHelp NYC has provided a map with locations where you can find food and my team is always here to help you navigate whatever other resources and assistance you may need.

As we celebrate Thanksgiving, let’s all make an effort to contribute to our community and show love and support for one another.

From our family to yours, happy Thanksgiving!

Warmly,