The 2010 economic crisis has continued to take a major toll on the Black community. With unemployment on the rise, families are finding it harder than ever to provide for their loved ones, making the holidays not so jolly. John and Marcia Tillman realized the struggles of the people in their community and saw an opportunity to help.

“Knowing that so many families wanted to celebrate the things they are thankful for this season, even in hard times, but can’t afford to fix a large meal, really opened our eyes. We wanted to give back,” Mrs. Tillman said.
The Tillmans own three McDonald’s restaurants and are founders of My McBlessings Inc. They used their resources to help meet the needs of their neighbors, giving out over 450 baskets to families in need. The baskets included everything necessary for a traditional holiday meal, including a turkey, cornbread stuffing, cranberry sauce, all the trimmings and more.

Members of Garden Oaks Church of Christ, 4926 North Shepherd Drive, where Mr. Tillman serves as Minister, joined McDonald’s employees in the holiday spirit of giving.


John & Marcia Tillman (left) and some of the hard-working volunteers.                           
Photo by Jesse Simon