Thanksgiving meals for the hungry in Savannah

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By Lynda Figueredo - email

SAVANNAH, GA (WTOC) – Thousands of Thanksgiving meals were served to the hungry and homeless Saturday in Forsyth park.

It's part of the Old Savannah City Mission's 12th annual day of Great Thanksgiving.

It's the traditional thanksgiving meal turkey, stuffing and gravy, but today it is being served to one group who needs it the most.

"I volunteered to help feed poor," said Elaine Bryant.

Volunteers from all backgrounds helped serve more than 7,000 turkey dinner's under a large white tent in Forsyth park.

"This is a chance to get in tune with one another. It is a replication of the first Thanksgiving. You have the Native Americans rescuing the Pilgrims and sitting down together to share and enjoy a meal together while thanking God," said Jim Lewis, the Executive Director of the Old Savannah City Mission.

Lewis says this year the organization has seen a 25% increase in meals served and a 19%decrease in donations, and even though donations are needed there was no shortage of turkey at this year's event.

"People have less financially that they can give but they say I can volunteer," said Lewis.

Over 800 volunteers came out to join together and serve while sharing a meal with those who are going through tough times.

Ray Williams and his wife are in charge of the volunteers.

Williams says a lot of people who have never served before are now showing up looking to help.

"I believe they doing the right thing and trying to help people who can't help themselves, that may be homeless or in between jobs and need something to tie them over for a short time," said Williams.

Besides getting a hot meal, outside of the tent people were able to build friendships and show thanks for one another.

Over a 1,000 dinners will also be delivered by volunteers to people who were not able to come to Forsyth park.