Salvation Army serves thousands of meals during the 33rd annual Christmas Day Family Feast

 

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Thousands of meals were given out Sunday by the Salvation Army to celebrate Christmas and give community members a home-cooked meal.

"We do this every year, me and the grandbabies. This is our little tradition," Milwaukee resident Tammi Allen said about the event.

There were 5,000 meals served between the 33rd annual Christmas Day Family Feast and their efforts at local churches.

"It's the biggest Salvation Army feeding program in the country that is happening on Christmas Day," Major Steven Woodard, with the Salvation Army of Southeastern Wisconsin, said.

Between prepping, serving and helping, 275 volunteers lent a hand this year.

"Love should be spread across the world, and joy and happiness and peace. I was raised by my mother who taught us to love one another and give back to others," volunteer Marcia Townsend said.

This was the first year since 2019 that the tradition was back in person, the opportunity to bond more with those being served.

"To be able to come and sit at the table, break bread together, to laugh, tell a joke, whatever it might be. Connect, maybe make a new friendship," Woodard said.

Even Santa Claus was happy to be able to see kids and families in person this year.

"Christmas is about spending time with loved ones, and this year it actually feels more personal than just waving at the children from cars. So, I'm loving that we're back in the building this year," he said.