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Released 24 January 2009
Turkey, stuffing, and all of the traditional trimmings will be served up when The Salvation Army hosts its annual Thanksgiving dinner at 11 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day, November 27th.
''Last year, we served over 500 meals, which included more families than usual, said Captain Russell Czajkowski, Commanding Officer. ''This year, with times being tougher, I'm sure we'll see even more people and even more families,'' Czajkowski said.
The event is free and anyone in the community is encouraged to attend.
"People tend to think that the meal is only offered to individuals staying at our Men's Homeless Lodge, but it's offered to anyone in need of a well balanced meal or anyone looking for some company if they alone for the holidays," Czajkowski said.
Volunteers always come eager to help and serve those less fortunate. They also make it a fun-filled event by singing Christmas carols, playing the piano or even bringing their own instruments from home to play.
"This year we are excited to have "Giggles the Clown" come help us serve the meal," said Christie Harper, Director of Public Relations. "It is always a blessing to see a young child's face light up when "Bubbles" hands them one of her balloon animals," Harper said.
The Salvation Army of Waco is in the midst of more than just planning for the Thanksgiving dinner.
Last Monday, the organization kicked off its annual Red Kettle Campaign through which bell ringers collect donations at local businesses, which help support Social Services all year round. Some of the Social Services include a food panty, feeding program, utility assistance, rent assistance, prescription assistance, Christmas assistance, clothing, and emergency shelter for those in need.
"We do our best to help as many people we can in need immediate assistance,'' said Rosa Burks, Director of Social Services for The Salvation Army. ''We really want the public to know that (The Salvation Army) is a free service, not just for the holidays, but all year round."
Some of The Salvation Army's year round programs include a soup kitchen located at 4th and Webster, where 3 meals a day are served, 365 days a year to anyone in the community. William and Catherine Booth Apartments, a 196 unit facility offered to the elderly and disabled at a lower price. A brand new Family Store located in the Parkdale Shopping Center, next to Hobby Lobby, where household items and quality used clothing are offered at a discounted price.