published: Friday, November 09, 2012

Salvation Army seeks help for holiday dinner

By SAMANTHA GHOLAR

sgholar@newssun.com

SEBRING -- Thanksgiving is approaching quickly, and Americans will be gearing up to prepare homes for families and friends in just two short weeks.

Though many people will spend the time-honored holiday with loved ones, not every person is able to share the day with family. For those unfortunate cases, organizations like the Salvation Army work diligently to provide a sense of holiday cheer.

The Salvation Army Thanksgiving dinner is free and open to all. This year's dinner will be held at the center at 120 N. Ridgewood Dr. in downtown Sebring from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day (Nov. 22).

Co-coordinator Major Vicki Stefanik works alongside her husband and the many volunteers to provide meals to those who aren't fortunate enough to share the holiday loved ones. Each year, the organization serves more than 200 meals to locals.

Though the Salvation Army works to bring smiles and put food in the bellies of those in need, the organization isn't able to do the huge job all on its own. Donations and volunteers are needed to ensure that the Thanksgiving dinner is a success each and every year.

"We do rely a lot on donations," said Stefanik. "We need them. We are looking to provide about 250 meals this year."

Everything from turkey to green beans are needed to have a full dinner available for the Thanksgiving. The Salvation Army operates in a small facility with a kitchen that isn't big enough to prepare the large-scale dinner they are planning to serve, so donations must be given in a particular manner.

"The turkeys need to be fully pre-cooked. Our kitchen is small, we don't have the means to do that type of cooking here. We can handle small things like side dishes and breads, but not turkey," explained Stefanik.

All other dishes needed include standard holiday side items: mashed potatoes, stuffing, macaroni and cheese, cakes, pies and other desserts. Those items may be donated cooked as well.

Volunteers are also needed for the Salvation Army Thanksgiving dinner.

The employees at the organization have plenty to do for anyone wishing to lend a hand during the holiday.

"There will be a few shifts. We can get you to work during the set up, serving or cleaning-up shift. Whatever works best with your schedule," Stefanik said.

Food items for donations should be as fresh as possible and should be dropped off the day of or day prior to Thanksgiving.

For more information, contact the Salvation Army's secretary Cindy at 385-7548, Ext. 100.