She and about 400 others came from South Jersey and Philadelphia to visit with friends and sit down to share a warm meal on Christmas.
For many volunteers it was a family affair. Lacarr Hamilton, of Gloucester City, N.J. brought his kids, four-year-old Kiyah and eight-year-old Joshua. He said it's important to show kids the full meaning of the holiday. "They got the opportunity to open their Christmas presents today and receive some things from Santa but it's also about giving back as well," he said.
Ethan Abrams, 12, of Cherry Hill, N.J., also came early in the day to help prepare food and set tables. "It makes me feel good on the inside and I think everyone should do this because it's a great feeling that you get," he said.
Minister at the church Thelma Miller said they have been feeding the needy on Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter for ten years. "This year with the economy the way it is, more than ever, we need to serve dinner and spread joy," she said.
All the food served came from the South Jersey Food Bank, the church or from donations. Church secretary Debra Beale took last week off to start baking desserts. "I baked from sun-up to sun-down everyday," she said, adding, "I am greatly blessed so I like to bless others."
Scott Buckingham, who is homeless said, "They should be home with their families but they're (volunteers) here for us homeless... that's what really touched me. I'm very thankful, very thankful they're here doing this."
