TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — As many are getting ready for Christmas in the comfort of their own home, a church in Tallahassee is preparing to feed people in need this Christmas Eve.
For almost 30 years, the Trinity United Methodist Church has held their Christmas dinner, bringing the community together while feeding those in need.
"Whatever it takes, we get it done every single year," said Blue Whitaker, Volunteer Head Chef and Marine Corps Veteran.
That's Whitaker's mission around this time, every year. He is a veteran leading a group of volunteers to provide food for those in need this Christmas.
"I feel good about doing it. I don't ask for anything. I just volunteer to do my job," said volunteer Odis Williams.
This is Williams' first year volunteering for the feast. While he's only lived in Tallahassee for five months, he says giving back is something he's done for years.
Showing kindness to others is what keeps him inspired.
"To see their faces and to see the joy because people might be going through something and you're there to brighten them up," said Williams.
Don Bowersox is also a veteran and volunteer. He says the annual event is more than just a hot meal.
"There's socks, some clothes, some mats and on their way out they pick through that and take what they can take," said Bowersox. "I guess they just start over their life again. We just do what we can do."
Just as the need increases so does the amount of people willing to step in and help.
"Some of my people, the guys in the kitchen, have brought their sons and when they got them they started bringing their grandsons," said Whitaker. "We have two or three families that work in the kitchen now that are on their third generation."
A Christmas tradition, bringing families together, while taking care of those in need.
"It can put a smile on your face and a glow in your heart," said Whitaker.
Anyone in need of that holiday meal is encourage to stop by.
It's happening Wednesday at Trinity United Methodist Church beginning at 12 p.m. until 3 p.m.
