EAST STROUDSBURG -- Hundreds of families in the Poconos will have a Christmas feast next week thanks to the Salvation Army.
Volunteers at the organization's East Stroudsburg location handed out Christmas baskets Thursday to those in need.
The harsh winds and freezing temperatures didn't stop volunteers at the Salvation Army in East Stroudsburg from giving back to their community. More than two dozen volunteers packed up bags filled with all the fixings to make the perfect Christmas dinner.
"It tells me a lot and helps me understand what people go through so it opens up a whole new perspective for everyone," said Bailey McCue.
McCue is a high school senior at East Stroudsburg South. She enjoys seeing how happy this drive makes people feel during the holidays.
"They are very, very grateful. A woman just told me she hopes I have the best holiday ever, all because I put a ham in her car."
More than 400 families picked up dinner packages
Kim Sims from East Stroudsburg is grateful for the service.
"Picking up some dinners for me, my family, and a friend's family. It's great, it's a blessing," said Sims.
Turkeys that are given out are actually donated by students at East Stroudsburg University. It's part of a fundraiser that they put together to give back to their community.
Andrew Bennett is a student at ESU and part of Project Turkey. He's happy to give back to his community during the holidays.
"It's a great feeling," Bennett said. "Everyone looks like they are having a good time. It's a little cold, but it's all right because it's nice to see the looks on the people's faces after you give them everything they need."
"This is part of what brings Christmas cheer to families and it's taking care of a basic need but it goes beyond that. Being able to have a traditional turkey or ham at Christmas time, it just makes it very special," said Major James Gingrich, East Stroudsburg Salvation Army.
The Salvation Army isn't finished giving back this holiday season just yet. On Monday, the organization will host its annual toy drive.