The Turlock Gospel Mission offers a free Thanksgiving dinner every year for people to come together, share and be thankful, and it wouldn’t be possible without the volunteer effort behind it.

“This event brings the community together and really shows what great hearts the people of Turlock have,” said Brianna Fitzgerald, communications administrator. “They are willing to donate and help out.”

Fitzgerald said that roughly 120 volunteers have signed up to assist during the event and that they can use all the help they can get.

Volunteers cover areas such as serving the Thanksgiving dinner from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., setting up and tearing down tables, covering financial donations and also donations of canned food items, paper plates, paper cups and plastic ware.

“The people of Turlock are not selfish,” said Fitzgerald. “It’s just great to see God’s people come together for the community.”

The dinner is open to everybody.

“We’re shutting down D Street between Broadway and First Street,” said Fitzgerald. “It’s almost like a block party.”

Turkey, ham, pie and potatoes are the main food items that Fitzgerald said they could use more of.

“We are expecting about 500 people this year,” she said. “Which is about 200 more than last year.”

For a full list of items needed or to register to volunteer go to turlockgospelmission.org and simply click on the Thanksgiving dinner slide. You can also contact Fitzgerald at 656-1033.

“The dinner is a great opportunity to bring people together and remind us to be thankful for what we do have,” said Fitzgerald