Salvation Army reports 1,498 meals served, delivered during annual Thanksgiving Day event

Like many Americans, Robert Winschel has his favorite holiday traditions.

The Arnold, Mo., resident feels he found a new one Thursday volunteering at the Salvation Army's annual Thanksgiving dinner.

"Every year I tell myself I'll do something like this, but this year finally decided to go through with it," said Winschel, who will soon move to Cape Girardeau with his son, Drake. "From this day on, my son and I plan to be here every Thanksgiving."

Winschel was among the 250 volunteers who spent some of the day serving 80 turkeys and 30 hams, refilling glasses of tea or just listening. Some volunteers arrived as early as 7:45 a.m. to prepare for the crowd.

Volunteers served or delivered 1,498 meals, with the leftover food to be used for the Salvation Army's Meals with Friends program.

That's an increase from the 1,311 meals served last year. Maj. Beth Stillwell of the Salvation Army attributes the increase to the recession.

"Some people are laid off, and many others are trying to stretch their budget," Stillwell said. "They're trying their best to get by, and we're helping out as much as we can."

Gloria Osby was among those who arrived at 11 a.m. for the feast. Osby, who attended the meal with her family, said she's grateful that organizations such as the Salvation Army are stepping up to help those in need during difficult economic times.

"In this time of a recession I think it's important for us to gather and give thanks for what we do have," Osby said in between bites of ham. "For myself, I'm grateful that I can take a few hours to spend time with friends and family around the dinner table."

Pat Wissman said he enjoys catching up with old friends and meeting new ones each year during the meal.

"The Salvation Army does so many great things for the community, and this is one of the ways they bless us," Wissman said. "They provide a great outlet to not only enjoy a pretty good meal but also to tend to the physical and spiritual needs of this area."

While hundreds enjoyed a warm plate of food, others like Becky Williams took advantage of free coats available near the dining area. About 390 coats that were donated through the Schnucks Coats for Kids campaign were for the taking Thursday.

"I'm grateful for the single fact that I can come here and eat a Thanksgiving meal but also pick up a coat that I need for the winter," Williams said. "It's important that people remember that this season is about giving to others in need."

bblackwell@semissourian.com

388-3628

Pertinent address:

701 Good Hope St., Cape Girardeau, MO