Local Salvation Army needs help for annual Thanksgiving meal

As families begin preparing for their Thanksgiving meals, the Salvation Army of Cape Girardeau is gearing up to feed thousands of people in the community.

At its last Thanksgiving lunch, the not-for-profit organization, along with community volunteers, spooned out bowls of chicken and dumplings and cut slices of pumpkin pie for 2,132 visitors. It was a record number served by the organization, which has been hosting the holiday meal since 1983.

Salvation Army Captain Ronnie Amick said serving such a large crowd was possible only because of the generosity and support of the volunteers, which is why it is calling on volunteers to help make the next Thanksgiving lunch equally successful.

Amick said based on the number of people who have sought help this year from the Salvation Army and other community organizations, it has determined even more people will be in need this Thanksgiving.

"We know people have been seriously affected by the deep recession over the past few years, and we are grateful to generous friends who have provided faithful support for those struggling to make ends meet," he said. "Unfortunately, the need has not decreased and the level of public support has been a blessing to us over the last year."

How to help

There are plenty of ways for people to help, Amick said. The Salvation Army needs donations for the meal, ranging from turkeys and hams to table place mats and silverware. Anyone who wishes to make a donation can simply drop it off at the Salvation Army, 701 Good Hope St. in Cape Girardeau, from 9 a.m. to noon and from 1 to 4 p.m.

Volunteering is another option for those who wish to help the community this holiday season. Amick said there always is a need for volunteers to help with the Thanksgiving meal.

"Everything from serving to bussing tables to driving meals out to the cleanup crew -- there are a lot of things to do," he said.

Those interested in helping with the meal may visit tsacapegirardeau.org and click on the "Volunteer" tab to volunteer for varying jobs, either as an individual or a family.

Donations to the Salvation Army can be made via phone at 1-800-SAL-ARMY or 335-7000. Gifts also can be mailed to 701 Good Hope St. Cape Girardeau, MO 63701 or made online at tsacapegirardeau.org.

srinehart@semissourian.com

388-3641

Pertinent address:

701 Good Hope St., Cape Girardeau, Mo.

---

Thanksgiving meal donations requested by the Salvation Army:

• turkeys and hams
• mashed potatoes and gravy
• sweet potatoes
• green beans
• dressing/stuffing
• rolls
• cranberry sauce
• cakes/pies
• celery
• onions
• marshmallows
• brown sugar
• butter
• steam table pans
• large aluminum foil
• small aluminum foil
• small cups with lids
• salt and pepper shakers
• salt and pepper, individual packages
• paper products for carryout meals
• silverware
• napkins
• table decorations
• table place mats