On behalf of Turlock Together and the Turlock Salvation Army, I wish to thank all of the volunteers and donors who so generously contributed time, money, foodstuffs, drinks, linens and other materials that once again helped make this year’s free Christmas dinner such a special day for more than 1,000 of our community’s less fortunate and lonely.

A traditional hot turkey and dressing dinner with all of the trimmings capped a wonderful afternoon that included gifts, games and activities for children and keepsake family portraits with Santa Claus. And thanks also to the many volunteers who helped plan, organize, set up, cook, serve and clean up during and after this compassionate occasion held Christmas Day at the Salvation Army’s facility on Lander Avenue.

While the list of contributors is far too long to recite here, our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation goes out to each and every one of you.

 — Dorothy Walker, Turlock Together Christmas Dinner event coordinator