By Teresa Varley
Steelers.com

Hines Ward, Deshea Townsend, Heath Miller, Carey Davis and Anthony Madison helped serve Thanksgiving dinner, sang carols and visited with those who take part in the programs at the Light of Life Rescue Mission.

The players left practice on Thanksgiving Day and headed right to the mission to spend their time with those who are down on their luck.         

“It’s nice to bring a smile to someone’s face,” said Ward “You just want to give them a sense of hope, even for that one split second. That’s all you can ask for. For us to be able to make a contribution to the community to bring a smile to someone’s face makes you feel good as a player. Thanksgiving is a time to go out and be thankful and feel bless that we are doing something we love to do. To be able to give back in the community is a wonderful thing.”

Some of the players helped with the food duties, while others spent time talking to those who were on hand and in need of a warm meal on the holiday.

“It’s another way to give back,” said Townsend. “The more that you can do, you should do it.  If we can bring a smile to their face just by showing up and having a conversation with them, it’s the least we can do.”