THUNDER BAY – For many, a hearty Thanksgiving meal is anything but a given each year.
As people struggle to make ends meet, battle homelessness, or simply don’t have anyone to break bread with, the Salvation Army of Thunder Bay’s annual turkey dinner has become a holiday staple for up to 300 people.
Thanks to volunteers from Thunder Bay Fire Rescue, it went off without a hitch on Monday.
Turkey, stuffing, vegetables and plenty of pumpkin and apple pie were served up at the Salvation Army’s Journey to Life Centre.
It’s a passion said TBFR’s Kevin Anderson, adding it’s never difficult to convince firefighters and their family to don an apron and help out each year.
“Every year we get different members who are off-duty who will come and help out. We are first responders in the city. We see the need, we see the homelessness, the encampments. We know they need to come and have a meal somewhere. For us to be able to help provide that, just makes us feel better,” Anderson said.
“To see the smiles on the faces of the people, any little bit they can have, is good by us.”
The Salvation Army is in the business of providing meals to those in need, but the Thanksgiving meal is one they go all out for each year.
It’s important, said Gary Ferguson, executive director at the Journey to Life Centre.
It may only be one meal, but it’s special.
And it’s a chance for the public to bond with firefighters and get to know them a little better.
“There are many people in the community, and I know it’s a thankful time for many, but some people don’t have a lot,” Ferguson said.
“I think a lot of our community is struggling at this point. It’s important we can offer this. There are other organizations that are offering Thanksgiving dinner too, but we’re pleased to be part of that circle of partners that are working toward that.”
The joy of a good meal is obvious, he added.
“How could you not love a great meal. The cooks are doing a fantastic job and the food is second to none.”
