Serving Up a Traditional Thanksgiving Feast for 'Family'

PEQUANNOCK, N.J., November 25, 2009 - It was a traditional turkey feast that came with all the fixings: stuffing, cranberry relish, mashed potatoes and pumpkin pie. But the guests who attended this Thanksgiving celebration are related not by blood, but by challenges they are confronting with the help of NewBridge Services, Inc.

More than 120 NewBridge clients - including those with special needs, and senior citizens who rely on NewBridge to continue living independently - attended the noon festivities at the First Reformed Church of Pompton Plains on Wednesday. For many of them, this was their only Thanksgiving celebration.

"We at NewBridge are a family, though maybe not the traditional variety," NewBridge Executive Director Robert L. Parker said. "What a blessing it was to break bread together, knowing a hearty meal nourishes our clients' bodies and souls as they travel on the path to wellness."

Out of respect and kindness for NewBridge clients, the First Reformed Church provided the accommodations, the Home Town Market of Pompton Plains prepared the meal at a greatly reduced price, area residents generously donated money to pay for the feast, and board members, staff and community volunteers helped serve the dinner, Parker said. "The outpouring of support touches us and reinforces our conviction that we are doing important work for people so in need of help."

About NewBridge Services
NewBridge Services, Inc., a non-profit community organization founded in 1963, provides innovative mental health, substance abuse, housing, children’s and senior services and education programs. Whether dealing with stress, grief, or substance abuse or in need of parenting, relationship or caregiving advice, NewBridge offers counseling programs, educational forums and life-enriching services to help people bring balance to their lives. For more information call 973-686-2200 or click here.