Thanksgiving Sweetens a Local Effort to Support the First United Methodist Food Pantry
November 11, 2025
A local baking business, Sweet on Occasion, is turning generosity into something a little sweeter this Thanksgiving season. Sweet on Occasion, located inside the Sanitary Market on the Square, is hosting a special cake drawing to raise funds for the First United Methodist Church food pantry—an essential community resource that is struggling to keep pace with growing demand.
Just this past weekend, the pantry served 140 families, and the need continues to grow. To help meet that need, Sweet on Occasion launched its Thanksgiving cake drawing—and the community responded immediately. They raised $300 on the first day alone.
The pantry is working hard to provide Thanksgiving essentials, including turkey breasts, to local families in need. As organizer Til Culbertson shared, “The need is real, and every contribution—big or small—makes a difference. We’re delivering funds to the church as they come in so they can start purchasing items right away.”
To encourage giving, Sweet on Occasion is offering donors a chance to win one of its Thanksgiving cakes. Supporters can choose from Carrot, Triple Chocolate, or Coconut.
How it Works
• Every $5 donation earns one ticket in the Thanksgiving cake drawing.
• A $25 donation earns five golden tickets, boosting the chances of winning.
• If one of your golden tickets is drawn, you’ll receive a Thanksgiving cake and a key lime pie.
• 100% of donations go directly to the First United Methodist food pantry.
Key Dates
• Last day to donate: Thursday, November 20
• Drawing held: Friday, November 21
• Pick-up date: Flexible for the winner
How to Donate
• Venmo: @SweetOnOccasion
• Cash donations: Accepted at the Sanitary Market on the Square
– Include your name, text number, cake choice, and number of tickets.
As the holiday season approaches, this local effort is a reminder of the power of community care. A simple donation not only helps stock the pantry—it helps ensure that more Laurens County families can sit down to a meaningful Thanksgiving meal.
For those who are able, this is a chance to give, support neighbors, and maybe even enjoy a delicious holiday dessert in the process.
Photo: First donation to the First United Methodist Church food pantry
