Nov 16, 2007 5:00 am US/Central
Texan With Character: Tillie Burgin
ARLINGTON (CBS 11 / TXA 21) ―
There's a whole lot of sorting going on inside the walls of Mission Arlington.
Organizers say it will take about 2,000 volunteers this season to make it happen.
After more than 20 years, Tellie Burgin's helping hand touches thousands and every hand is needed.
On Thanksgiving Day, Burgin and her army of volunteers will deliver meals to 14,000 people.
Burgin started Mission Arlington 1986 with a vision to take the gospel to the people, one person at a time.
"We realized years ago that we are preventing homelessness by helping with Thanksgiving and helping with Christmas and the kind of things that are extra." she said.
Volunteers staff Mission Arlington 365 days a year. They help people with things such as health care and clothing and even special programs for adults and children.
"We're here to bring support ... to stay up with demand ... and, there is a job for everybody."
There always is a need for new volunteers.
She recalled a recent story of someone in trouble who came to her and she, in turn, put him to work.
"I said, 'this is your job, this is your assignment' and he is so happy today because he is physically helping other people."
Burgin added many people come back to lend a hand year after year.
"You know that you have done something to help this community and giving back. I promise you you will be blessed," she offered to potential volunteers and donors.
(© MMVII, CBS Stations Group of Texas L.P. All Rights Reserved.)
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