Highland Park, this Thanksgiving tells a story far bigger than donated meals—it exposes the ongoing political neglect that keeps families dependent on charity rather than supported by real policy. While J. Douglas Hollie and the H.P. Polar Bear Express Team provided 100+ Thanksgiving bundles, feeding roughly 1,000 residents, the sheer scale of need highlights a city where leadership too often celebrates survival instead of delivering solutions.

The meals were distributed by City Council President Pro-Tem Sharmaine Robinson, Pastor Robert D. “Bobby” Lodge, Lt. Jamillie Edwards and volunteers who stepped in where local and state systems continue to fall short. Robinson stated, “The Highland Park community has shown resilience in tough times,” a phrase that has become political cover for years of underfunding, stalled development, and broken promises to the people of Highland Park.

Lodge added, “This is community—Parkers helping Parkers,” which is true—but it also reflects a deeper truth: without consistent policy action, community members are forced to patch the holes left by government failures.

As other cities across Michigan see renewed investment, growing infrastructure, and strong public services, Highland Park residents are still relying on seasonal donations to meet basic needs. It raises a serious question:

Why is Highland Park constantly asked to be resilient instead of being given the resources every thriving community deserves?

This Thanksgiving initiative was meaningful—but it should also be a wake-up call. Highland Park doesn’t need more photo ops. It needs political will, long-term investment, and leaders ready to fight for structural change instead of celebrating temporary relief. Only then will families have more than a holiday meal—they’ll have a fair chance at stability, dignity, and a better future.