More than 200 people celebrated the Thanksgiving holiday with a complete holiday meal thanks to the generosity of strangers through the Tamaqua Salvation Army.

The Salvation Army’s Community Center was open Thanksgiving Day, serving meals in the cafeteria to anyone looking for a hot meal or fellowship. Besides serving meals in the cafeteria, volunteers delivered over 100 packaged platters to homes in Tamaqua, Andreas, Coaldale Lansford and Lehighton.

Major Sharon Whispell, pastor for the Salvation Army, said this is her eighth year helping with the Tamaqua event, although the local unit has been serving the traditional meals for more than 30 years.

Lead coordinator for this year’s meal was Lorraine Durning, with preparation help from the Salvation Army’s Older and Bolder group.

Whispell said not only is it inspiring to see so many homeless and low-income residents have a proper meal, but “to see their faces when some of our volunteers talk to them and interact with them is wonderful.”

She said so many people can be served due to the many volunteers who give of their time on holidays to help, as well as those who made cash and food donations.

The volunteers included youngsters from elementary and high school age groups to senior citizens.

The meal consisted of turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, vegetables and dessert.

A handmade card was included for every person who received a meal. More than 500 cards were made for the occasion by the ReDCo Group.

Santa also made an appearance at the dinner.

Tim Collings, one of those having dinner, said, “I appreciate what the Salvation Army is doing. I’m retired and have no relatives around here. The food they serve is very good, and I think it’s wonderful.”

The Salvation Army, which has been active in Tamaqua for 102 years, has numerous programs designed to help those in need during the holidays.

In addition to Thanksgiving dinner, Salvation Army volunteers provide Christmas food baskets, assist with the Marine Corps League’s Toys For Tots program, conduct an Angel Tree program so each child receives something personal from Santa and provides warm clothing with the assistance of Safer Streets for Tamaqua’s Little Feet.