Salvation Army volunteers serve hundreds in need in Greenville

Miller joins hundreds of guests here at the Salvation Army of Allen Road for their 3rd Annual community Thanksgiving dinner.

Mac Kenzie said only half of their volunteer spots are full, so they’re looking for more people to help out. “We’re trying to accommodate and get them out of here before the weather turns”, she said. It is a chance to help lift the spirits of people with a holiday greeting. Last year, the non-profit served more than 170,000 meals to families in need.

While most of us spent the day tracking down all those Black Friday deals, a small group of families are passing up those shopping opportunities to serve other* families.

Matt and Jay Glatz are both members of the Peoria area Salvation Army board and say this campaign is one of their favorites.

“A lot of people may not have someone, family locally, or family anymore to celebrate Thanksgiving with, so it’s a time for people to come together and have that time of fellowship”, says Capt. Spencer.

“Everybody knows the red kettle is a symbol of Christmas”, said Marcy Stutzman, Milwaukee County Salvation Army.

Volunteers worked for days ahead of the meal to prepare. The bell ringing at local stores will be from 11 a.m.to 8 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m.to 7 p.m. Saturdays.

The holiday season comes with an unmistakable sound.

“When they finally arrive it’s just like the greatest joy of all, it really is this is a wonderful thing” said volunteer Donna Stratton.

“I just thank God for this day another Thanksgiving I’ve never seen before and many more Thanksgivings, I said many more”, said Larry White.