LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — The Salvation Army feeds hundreds of people during their annual Christmas meal.
This year was no different.
Doug Gray was one of the many volunteers helping out. He isn't new to spending Christmas within the walls of the Salvation Army, and not just as a volunteer.
"I myself was raised on the welfare system. And Christmas was Salvation Army. They gave us food, they gave us clothes, toys. So it's giving back to what we were beneficial to receive back in the day," said Gray.
Hundreds of people ate a hot lunch during the Salvation Army's annual Christmas meal.
"Sometimes they're alone. Sometimes it's a whole family. But they know that they're cared for. They know that it's not just a meal. People take the time to get to know them and talk to them," said Major William Garrett.
There was even food delivered to some families who couldn't make it to the headquarters.
"We have drivers to take out 200 meals. That kind of giving on this day, it's just something that's over the top to me," said Major Garrett.
It's an act of kindness, even the littlest of volunteers feel proud of. Plus, the generosity resonates with those at the dining table.
"And just for one day, just for a couple hours, to have a sense that things are kind of normal. That everything's going to be okay that you're not forgotten," said Major Garrett.
Though the annual Christmas meal is over, the Salvation Army headquarters is open Monday through Friday, with services including a food pantry and clothing bank.
