By Noelani Mathews | WCTV Eyewitness News

VALDOSTA – It’s a Thanksgiving Gennell McDowell will never forget.

She’s homeless at 36 years old.

“Some people may say it sounds crazy, but I’m just thankful to be in the shelter,” says McDowell.

She’s thankful, despite her year-long journey.

McDowell says it’s the little things, like a roof over her head and her warm bed, that makes her the most grateful this holiday season.

“I’m grateful because I really thought this Thanksgiving I wasn’t going to have anything,” says McDowell. “I really thought I was going to be out on the streets.”

Instead, she finds hope at the L.A.M.P. shelter in Valdosta.

The shelter is preparing to serve McDowell and many others a Thanksgiving meal on Thursday.

“Sometimes just that small gesture makes them feel like they have a lot to be thankful for,” says Sharah Denton, with L.A.M.P.

Many residents are empty-handed, except for a long list to be thankful for.

“For forgiving me for the things that I have done while I was out there on drugs and alcohol,” says Wilbur Pitts.

Pitts has been homeless for more than two years, while looking for work and a place to call home.

“I haven’t used drugs in three years. I haven’t touched alcohol in three years. All of this became a wonderful sensation, a new start in life,” says Pitts.

Even those fighting against all odds are keeping the holiday cheer.

“This is going to be the best Thanksgiving because I’m here,” says McDowell.

Giving thanks, and never giving up.