JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- Most of us won't be celebrating Thanksgiving until Thursday. But for 875 needy families, turkey day will come Tuesday, thanks to volunteers like Dana Mitchell.
"There was a group of us. So many hands make light work," said Mitchell.
They spent hours sorting all the holiday fixings into boxes, stacking each one for families to pick up.
"It makes you a lot more appreciative of the things that you have. And it's what we should be thankful for," said Mitchell.
But what aren't in the boxes yet are turkeys that will also be given out. And this year the Salvation Army almost didn't see them either.
"We do meet the need, but every once in a while it comes down to the wire," said Social Services Coordinator for the Salvation Army Carissa Cazaras.
One week ago the Salvation Army was short by more than 800 turkeys. But in a last-minute push, the community pulled through.
"I am glad that people were able to reach deep down and contribute," said Mitchell.
They also got 50 more birds that they will cook to feed the hungry from their dining room on Thanksgiving Day.
"It's your local grocery store clerk, it's your working class family that you don't know are in need of assistance," said Cazaras. And this week they will all have a warm meal as they count their blessings.
The Salvation Army will open their dining room Thursday at 1 p.m. to anyone who wants to have a meal. It is located at 900 W. Adams St. in downtown Jacksonville.
