By Debbie Robinson

news@joplinglobe.com

Gayle Warren will have her hands full Thursday when the First United Methodist Church in Joplin prepares its annual Thanksgiving meal for the community.

Warren, who was making pumpkin rolls last week, will oversee the preparation of 150 pounds of turkey, 50 pounds of ham and more.

“This is something God has given me to do,” Warren said. “I love feeding people, so when they asked me if I would take over this, I said I would be glad to.”

Last year, volunteers at the church served free holiday meals to 411 people.

“I love watching people come in, who don’t have a place to go, sit down and get waited on,” Warren said.

Capt. Mary Poff at the Joplin Salvation Army voiced similar thoughts about the organization’s annual community dinner.

“We just love the people we have here and those who come in our doors,” Poff said.

The organization is planning a traditional Thanksgiving meal prepared and served by more than 100 volunteers.

“The people who volunteer for us have really big hearts,” Poff said. “This is a great opportunity to help those in the community who don’t have the means to do this themselves.”

Here are some examples of area churches and organizations that are offering free meals on Thanksgiving Day. Volunteer opportunities also are included.

Joplin

n First United Methodist Church will serve its holiday meal from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the church at Fourth Street and Byers Avenue.

More than 400 people are expected to be served the traditional meal.