COLORADO SPRINGS — Thousands of people received a free Thanksgiving meal on Thursday thanks to The Salvation Army, soldiers at Fort Carson, and community volunteers.
It's a meal that is so important for those in need and is a staple in the Pikes Peak region - serving families and individuals who need a hot meal and some company during the holiday.
Turkey, green beans, bread, butter - just some of the food served up at the annual Thanksgiving dinner.
Brig. General John Meyer said, "18 soldiers volunteered 77 hours of their time over the last couple days preparing 300 turkeys, 200 pounds of mashed potatoes that will be served throughout five different areas."
Brian Lamb was just one of the many people enjoying the free Thanksgiving meal.
Lamb said, "It means a lot to me. I don't have any family here or anything like that."
What's more - he's fallen on some hard times.
He said, "I lost my job about a week ago and of course I live week to week, and so I don't have any money. I didn't have any way to eat and I seen this flyer that said to come here and I could get a free meal so that's what I did."
While he may be sharing a meal with strangers he said, "This has helped me out a lot coming here today and getting to talk to people."
Being able to serve people like Lamb is a blessing for the Turner family.
Eli & Tara Turner decided to volunteer "because we want to help people...we want to be nice to people."
Laura Turner said, "I think it just teaches them...that this is an important season to think about other people and what they're thankful for everyday...it encourages them to look inside their community and go how can we help?"
The Salvation Army also served to those who were home-bound. Several meals were delivered to those who were ill or shut-in.
