S.H.A.R.E. Serves 809 Free Thanksgiving Meals
KINGSVILLE, TEXAS - For the past decade, Connie Cashen has been a steady force behind Sharing Happily and Reaping Endlessly, S.H.A.R.E, the local volunteer group that provides a free Thanksgiving meal to the community each year.
Connie Cashen with volunteer before serving over 800 free Thanksgiving meals.
This year, Cashen served as volunteer coordinator, organizing more than 75 volunteers who helped distribute 809 meals on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at the Methodist Community Life Center.
Cashen is known for running an efficient operation, keeping volunteers moving with clear direction and a warm spirit. “Even if I fuss at you, it doesn’t mean I don’t love you,” she told volunteers during a final briefing before the doors opened.
Before serving began, volunteers joined in prayer for the community and sang “This Little Light of Mine” as they prepared to welcome guests.
With many helpers, including some who arrive unexpectedly, Cashen keeps a whiteboard updated throughout the day to ensure everyone has a meaningful role. She says it’s important that volunteers feel their time is valued so they return year after year. “We enjoy all of the volunteers,” she said with a laugh. “We try to put them to work somewhere.”
The annual Thanksgiving outreach began after founding member Jennifer Guyton prayed for guidance on how to help the Kingsville community. She said she felt led by the words “Feed my people,” which sparked the creation of the S.H.A.R.E. committee. Today, more than 10 local churches and students from schools across Kingsville and Kleberg County take part.
“I want to serve the community,” Cashen said. “It’s an outreach for people who may need it and even for those who may not. We still want to be able to serve them.”
