Come'n get it

PORT JERVIS, N.Y. - As they have for over 30 years, the Salvation Army was serving Thanksgiving dinner to the less fortunate on Tuesday. Over 100 people from the tri-state area came for a free dinner served at the Salvation Army Center in Port Jervis. Six 30-pound turkeys were prepared and cooked at the Delaware Valley High School cafeteria. Most of the people who arrived for an early dinner at 11:30 a.m. were clients whom the Salvation Army assists at other times as well throughout the year. The whole operation was supervised by Sharon Eagle of the Salvation Army. Eagle had 12 volunteers from Delaware Valley High School, all members of the Honor Society, who pitched in to serve the many guests. There were nine seniors and three sophomores, some working in the kitchen, while others brought dinners to the tables. “When I’m not supervising a function like this, I work at our soup kitchen, which is open six days a week. I’ve been doing this for nine years,” said Eagle. “We help our clients with their utility bills, clothing expenses, and other necessities. We try to fill the needs. When I can’t get what they need, I network with other organizations and churches,”said Doris Hnida, a social worker for the Salvation Army. The first seating filled the room, with over 54 people. Turkey, gravy, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce piled high were served piping hot to everyone. Pumpkin pie was waiting for dessert. “They all get here early because they think they’ll miss out, but we always have enough for everyone,” Hnida said with a smile. She went on to say, “We operate a food pantry all year where clients can get canned, frozen foods, and dry goods which we get from a regional food bank. The food bank is like a clearing house, and offers low cost food items to non-profit organizations.” The room was filled with the faces of well-fed people, who upon leaving, thanked Hnida and the others for a savory holiday meal.