Volunteers at the Salvation Army’s Richmond location were busy Thursday preparing to serve their annual Christmas meals.
Several turkeys were already roasted, and vegetables were being chopped into giant pots. Over Thursday and Friday evening, volunteers expect to serve a combined 300 people a hot meal.
“We serve a beautiful turkey dinner with all the trimmings,” said executive director and pastor Kathie Chiu. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for us to connect with many of the people who have come to us for assistance throughout the year.”
During the dinner, there’s a visit from Santa for the kids. While they’re distracted, volunteers distribute gift hampers to parents who take the toys home and wrap them to be opened Christmas morning.
After the two Christmas dinners, the Salvation Army congregation will come together on Dec. 23, the first Sunday before Christmas.
Then, on Christmas Eve, they’ll host a candlelight service with music and Christmas carols.
“It’s just a lovely atmosphere,” Chiu said. “It’s really all about serving others. That’s our calling … and every year it amazes me.”
