MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- More than 400 volunteers prepared holiday meals for thousands of guests on Christmas Day at the Salvation Army's 36th annual Christmas Family Feast at the Baird Center in Milwaukee.

The event was open to everyone in the community, with meals including a homestyle dinner of turkey, mashed potatoes, green beans and dessert.

"It is amazing what our community and the people of our community are doing to come out and share on this special day," said Beverly Gates, Milwaukee area commander for the Salvation Army.

Gates added that the tradition helps those in need during the holiday season. "It's a time of giving and today there are people giving their times and talents just to share with others."