The Temple Salvation Army hosted their second annual Socksgiving sock drive and Thanksgiving meal Tuesday, Nov. 20.
Many young and old from the community came to partake in the home cooked meal and afterward got to take home a new pair of socks.
A new pair of socks is something many need this time of year because of the cold and wet season.
"A lot of the people that we serve get around by foot, that's kind of how they transport," Lt. Chantel Millin Corps Officer said. "And in this season its cold, it's rainy so their feet are wet and uncomfortable."
Being with family and friends is the feeling the Temple Salvation Army strives for when helping the ones in need.
"And be able to enjoy with just a nice meal with other people, especially around the holidays. Lt. Millin said. "It can be a sad time so this gives them an opportunity to come in see some smiling faces hear some laughter."
Being with family and friends is exactly what Rokichia Royal was feeling as she sat with many others from the community.
"I feel wonderful, I'm glad to have this opportunity to sit down with friends and other people, we're all just one big family." Royal said.
The Salvation Army chose to celebrate on Tuesday because of the other organizations that are also giving a turkey dinner.
"We had already gotten word that there was one happening Wednesday, Thursday and Friday and so we said hey why not let people do a thanksgiving meal all week long. " Lt. Millin said.
Royal was homeless about three months ago and thanks to the Salvation Army she has a bed to sleep in and three meals a day.
"I'm grateful, I'm grateful because without them I wouldn't be where I'm at now," Royal says. "They help out a whole lot, they make sure we have everything that we need."
When the sun goes down, Lt. Millin said it's all about the community having a wonderful time.
"At the end of the day, you sit back and remember the smiles you remember the kids running around getting a sugar high, you remember the faces of the people and their bellies are full having a conversation," Lt. Millin said. "Out of all the things we can be grateful for we're grateful for the opportunity to serve."
If you would like to donate new socks or anything else to the Salvation Army, you can Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at 419 West Avenue G, Temple.
For more information visit the Salvation Army website.
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