NATCHEZ — Five years ago, all Carrie Minor wanted to do was make a difference in people’s lives.

Through the Harvest of Plenty Thanksgiving Community Dinner, she’s been able to accomplish her goal five years in a row.

The dinner provided ham, turkey, stuffing and other Thanksgiving traditions to less fortunate citizens in the area.

“It brings tears to my eyes and joy to my heart to know that I’ve helped make a difference in people’s lives,” Minor said. “The reason I do what I do is because I love God, and God loves all of us.”

Minor said the meal they provide might be the only meal of the day for some, so they try and load up the trays with as much food as possible.

“When they leave here, even if it’s the only meal they’ll have today, hopefully they’ll have enough food,” Minor said. “I just love to see smiles on their faces and joy in their lives.”

Minor and the regular annual volunteers got some extra help Thursday from the Alcorn State Women’s Basketball Team.

Assistant coach Garland Mance said the team participates in several outreach projects to give back to the community.

“It’s always nice to do something for people who need help,” Mance said. “You have to try to reach out and help everybody as much as you can.”

Kiara Ruffin, senior and member of the team, said it’s a blessing to be able to help people that need it and to give back to the community.

“Around this time you want to be with your family, but you also want to be thankful and help other people to give them what you already have,” Ruffin said. “When they thank you for giving back, it’s just the best feeling ever.”