Thanksgiving Day feast for thousands at Durham Rescue Mission was a success thanks to volunteers

DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- Hundreds of volunteers helped the Durham Rescue Mission prepare for their annual Thanksgiving Dinner.

From the smallest of helpers to the eldest-it's all hands on deck at the Durham Rescue Mission. 'Bags of Hope' were given to those who showed up for meals and for those who are considered unhoused. The bags include essential items like gloves, blankets, and water, all assembled by volunteers.

Thanksgiving Day their volunteer labor paid off. The rescue mission said they served 2,148 traditional meals and 1,125 hotdog trays. They also delivered an additional 1,389 to Durham Housing Authority and Meals on Wheel.

According to the Durham Rescue Mission:

• 2,028 people attended the dinner

• $110,000 worth of voucher cards to their thrift Stores were distributed

• 7,921 articles of clothing given away

• 262 bags of groceries were distributed

Volunteers make it happen

During Wednesday night's preparation, Sara Xander tells ABC11 that it's her family's faith that prompted them to volunteer.

"I mean, Christ gave outside of himself. And so we like to teach them to think outside themselves and make sure that they're seeing the world outside of their world," Xander said.

In the parking lot nursing students helped prepare 200 turkeys before they hit the grill.

Volunteering means a lot to Maria Mawyian. "It's just really fulfilling, really grateful, just knowing that there's like I've been in this spot where you don't have money to put food on your table," said Mariah Mawyian.

For Thanksgiving -the Mission fed 1,000 meals on-site and delivered another 1,500 to people at home.

"In the holidays, there are wonderful times. But for people who are alone, it's not a wonderful time. This is a great time for people to come together," said Rob Tart, Durham Rescue Mission.

In its 50th year -attendees also had a bag of groceries to take home, kids enjoyed carnival games, and even had the chance to win big prizes like a bike or Chromebook.

"It's probably, in my opinion, the most special place to be at Thanksgiving. This is better than a football game," said Tart.