Christ-Centered Ministries (CCM) marked a milestone moment this Thanksgiving as more than 1,000 guests—individuals experiencing homelessness, families in crisis, and neighbors seeking community—gathered for a celebration rooted in dignity and restoration. Guided by the vision of Pastor Troy and Pastor Darlene Vaughn, CCM’s mission came alive in a powerful way as transformed lives led the charge.
Before sunrise, CCM’s team and volunteers—many of whom were once guests themselves—were already preparing more than 80 turkeys, 80 hams, thousands of sides, and 1,000 pies, crafted by CCM’s own social-enterprise, Manna Feast Catering Services. But this event was far more than a meal. It was a living demonstration of the restoration model embodied throughout CCM’s programs, including the Restoration Reentry Residence (RRR).
Leaders and community partners joined Pastor Troy onsite, including Inglewood Mayor James Butts, Pastor Charles Blake II, West Angeles Church, Restoration Family Worship Center, Manna Feast, and LARRP. Yet the heartbeat of the day came from people whose lives CCM helped transform—now serving with excellence, purpose, and deep compassion.
Pastor Troy reminded volunteers before the gates opened:
“Make every guest feel seen. Not served—seen. That is where restoration begins.”
From formerly incarcerated leaders directing operations, to program graduates running public-health teams, to community voices returning to say thank you, the event showcased what CCM has modeled for 25 years: transformed people become the strongest restorers.
This Thanksgiving didn’t just feed a community. It revealed a movement—one restoring Los Angeles life by life through compassion, structure, faith, and opportunity.