Chicago family makes it an annual mission to feed the unhoused for Thanksgiving
CHICAGO (CBS) -- In a Thanksgiving tradition that began over a decade ago, one Chicago family has made it a mission to cook up a meal for those experiencing homelessness every year.
The neighbors whom Chuck Grouzard and his wife, Margaret, serve always thank them. But the family receives so much more by lending a hand.
"Being able to help and give back, and being with the residents—they're amazing," said Chuck Grouzard. "You learn about their journey, and you realize that we're all on that same journey together."
Chuck and Margaret Grouzard work in perfect tandem. They make Chuck's special cheesy eggs at the Lincoln Park Community Services Old Town Shelter, 1521 N. Sedgwick St.
"It's a team effort for sure, but we did it," said Margaret Grouzard.
Lincoln Park Community Services—which has two locations and houses up to 120 people each night—provides interim housing and helps its residents find jobs and a home they can call their own.
"I realized that there are many reasons why people are homeless, and we cannot judge anyone because of that," said Pauline Parkinson.
Parkinson is a scientist who dreams of getting a job developing medicines. On a day most hope to spend time with her family, she reflected on her adopted one at the shelter.
"They've become like family," said Parkinson. "I have adopted unofficially one of the residents who was here."
Joseph Daniels is part of that group. He visited the shelter Thursday and left with his heart and stomach full.
"People showing us that they care about us," Daniels said.
Daniels' expression suggested surprise that he was treated with such kindness.
"You're dealing with people who are homeless, and people seem to look at you, in a way some—I'm not most or all, just some—and y'all come here, you motivate us, and to treat us kindly and nice, and talk to us," he said. "That's what matters."
On Thanksgiving, Daniels said that was he is most grateful for.
"That kindness will be returned from me to others because of that," Parkinson said.