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For more than half a century, the Park family of Manna’s Restaurant has been a pillar of Harlem, weaving generosity and service into the fabric of the community. Founded by Betty Park, Manna’s has long been more than a place to eat, it has been a source of nourishment for both body and spirit. Betty, a beloved figure in Harlem, has spent five decades supporting local non-profits and churches, ensuring that her business remains deeply connected to the people it serves.
This Thanksgiving, that legacy of giving was once again on full display. On November 27th, Bethel Gospel Assembly hosted its annual Thanksgiving Dinner and Clothes Giveaway, a tradition that has uplifted Harlem for years. With most of the food provided by Manna’s Restaurant, the event became a vibrant celebration of compassion and unity. Families gathered not only to share a meal but also to receive warm clothing, reminding everyone that the holiday is about more than abundance, it is about community care.
Bethel Gospel Assembly, itself a cornerstone of Harlem for over 100 years, has consistently offered more than worship services. It has been a sanctuary where love, support, and hope are extended to all, especially the most vulnerable. This year’s Thanksgiving event reflected that enduring spirit, creating a space where neighbors could be heard, helped, and celebrated.
Manna’s contribution to Bethel’s efforts is part of a broader commitment to Harlem’s future. For nine years, the restaurant has supported Bethel’s Thanksgiving outreach, but its impact stretches further. Through a scholarship program now named in memory of Betty’s late son, Charlton Park, Manna’s helps send local high school seniors to college. This initiative not only honors Charlton’s legacy but also invests in the next generation of leaders, ensuring that Harlem’s youth have the opportunity to thrive.
Betty Park embodies the essence of community leadership. She is more than a businesswoman, she is a legacy of resilience, generosity, and vision. Her work reminds Harlem that true success lies not in profit alone but in the lives touched and uplifted along the way.
As we reflect on this year’s Thanksgiving celebration, gratitude extends to Bethel Gospel Assembly, Manna’s Restaurant, and the countless volunteers and contributors who made the day possible. Together, they showed what authentic community support looks like. May we continue to build on this foundation, one act of service at a time.
