LUBBOCK, TX (KCBD) -
The Salvation Army of Lubbock is providing a traditional Thanksgiving meal today for all of those who may not be able to afford one.
Although they have prepared a meal for 600 people, they plan to serve about 400 to 500 people from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the Family Housing Facility on 16th and Avenue J.
Almost 200 volunteers are expected to help out today. The early-bird volunteers, about 70 of them, arrived at 5 a.m. this morning, preparing the roast turkey, gravy, mashed potatoes and other holiday favorites.
Other volunteers will leave at 6 p.m. tonight after clean up and then spend Thanksgiving dinner with their families.
Justin Eatherly, Community Relations Director, says they are the only organization in Lubbock that he knows of that is serving a free meal on Thanksgiving Day.
"The others that are providing a meal did so earlier in the week or they will be serving one tomorrow," he said.
Last year, the Salvation Army served 300 individuals. This year, Eatherly is expecting a lot more because they have extended their hours.
"We're starting one hour earlier this year because this it allows families to join us for lunch and an early dinner if they want to."
Eatherly said that the Lubbock Salvation Army has been providing Thanksgiving meals for families on Thanksgiving Day since the organization was established in 1922.
Former Lady Raider and WNBA superstar Sheryl Swoops will also help serve the meal.
They also plan to provide a home-cooked meal on Christmas day for those in need as well.
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More than 200 volunteers help Salvation Army of Lubbock providing a traditional Thanksgiving meal (KCBD file photo)
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