Salvation Army Helps Families Have a Happy Thanksgiving

Inland Valley families who might not have otherwise enjoyed a Thanksgiving meal last week enjoyed a traditional holiday feast through the efforts of the San Bernardino Corps of the Salvation Army. From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day, volunteers from the San Bernardino Corps served dinner to hundreds of people at its Corps headquarters building, 746 West Fifth St. “Times are really tough for everyone, especially at this time of year when people really need an extra hand to get them through the holiday season,” said Major Daniel Henderson, San Bernardino Corps officer. “We had a wonderful Thanksgiving dinner, complete with turkey, potatoes, gravy, stuffing, vegetables and pie, and all were welcome to join.” The annual Thanksgiving meal brought in hundreds of families, single mothers with children and individuals who did not have the means to provide themselves a Thanksgiving dinner. People came from throughout the Inland Valley for this Thanksgiving dinner, which served close to 300 people. Hungry families were joined by hundreds of volunteers who prepared and served the meals. Along with the volunteers who helped serve food, the Salvation Army encouraged people to donate turkeys or hams, side dishes and other food by calling in. “An effort of this size is not a one person show,” said Henderson. “Volunteers were needed to help prepare and serve the food along with decorating the facility. It truly is a community effort in making this event a success. Thanksgiving should be a special day for everyone, not just for those who can afford it.”