A way to give back.
That was the message of those who helped put together a Christmas dinner for residents at the Jefferson City Salvation Army.
Sue Prenger, of Holts Summit, brought her 11-year-old grandson, Quynton, to help and show that others are less fortunate.
"I lost my leg a couple of years ago, and it's been hard for me to get through that," she said. "I just want to give to others who are going through a loss. It makes me feel better."
Prenger has been raising Quynton since he was five-months-old and at one time was raising four grandchildren. That's when she sought help from the Salvation Army.
"My husband was working, but we needed the help," she said. "They helped us with clothing and food. Now I see how lucky I am, so this year I can do this."
Tyra Brown works for the Salvation Army and last year decided she wanted to do a Christmas dinner. Around 70 people partook, and since they had a good response, they decided to do it again. She was joined by members of her family and other volunteers who made a traditional meal, including turkey, ham and mashed potatoes.
"There are a lot of people out there crying for help and there's a tremendous need," Brown said.
Hoping to feed around 100 people this year, Brown noted there are 40 beds at the shelter, but the word gets around town that a meal is being served, so they see many who have no sheltered place to sleep.
"We get plenty of donations from businesses to the shelter regularly, but during the holidays, many citizens want to help so some volunteer, but many buy the ingredients for our meals," Brown said.
Brown's 15-year-old daughter helped with the cooking and she hoped it was a lesson for her on the true meaning of Christmas.
"As a mom, doing this really appealed to me," Brown said.
"I think if we show them when they're young about giving then they'll do it when they get older," Prenger added.