‘We are incredibly grateful’: Shepherd’s House hosts Thanksgiving dinners in Bend and Redmond

(Update: Adding video, comments from staff, shelter users)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- On Wednesday, Bend's Lighthouse Navigation Center hosted their own holiday meals, giving people a chance to reflect on what they're thankful for.

"When I came in here, I was pretty defeated," Matthew Kaiser said Wednesday. "With all of their support and help, I've been able to gain employment, go to school. Just, opportunities that I didn't see in my life are coming full circle. Without their help, I don't think I could have done it."

The Lighthouse Navigation Center is a 24/7 care and support facility for people who are currently experiencing houselessness in Central Oregon. 

Even though many people staying there have few personal possessions, many were thankful for what they did have. 

Kevin Woodson said, "I'm thankful it's warm in here. We have bathrooms, which you can use. I'm just thankful for this place. If not, I'd be homeless. I'd be out on the streets."

The Thanksgiving meals, held in Bend and at the Redmond Center, were filled with turkey, stuffing, gravy, mashed potatoes, green beans and pies. 

Michael Hewes said, "It's going to be delicious. They've been working a lot on it. Several different places have been cooking for all this deal, so I'm sure it would be fantastic. Thanksgiving, turkey, everything, all the goodies."

The Thanksgiving meal is thanks to community donations.

Lighthouse Navigation Center Director Naomi Blair said, "We are incredibly grateful. We want to be able to thank the community. Thanksgiving's just a great time to reflect on the gratitude that we have for the community in which we live and in which we serve."

If you want to donate, or want to learn more about the Shepherd's House and The Lighthouse, you can visit their website.