The spirit of giving in Grand Rapids

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (NEWSCHANNEL 3) - Thursday was a day of kindness and gratitude, many people used the holiday as an opportunity to give to those who are not as fortunate.

There was a great example of that spirit of generosity in Grand Rapids. It's a new tradition taking hold there, as thousands headed out into the cold for a hot meal.

A traditional Thanksgiving dinner for close to 2,000 people who might not have had one otherwise.

The kitchen at Devos Place was bustling, jam packed with hundreds of volunteers filling boxes with everything you could ask for in a Thanksgiving dinner.

"We have a plate with turkey and stuffing and gravy, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, rolls, am I missing something?" said Chef Michael Merrins.

Merrin's been with Mel Trotter Ministries for five years, he says "as much as it is difficult and taxing, I do love it."

The Ministry has been bringing Thanksgiving to those less fortunate for more than a decade.

"If I were homeless or poor I would hope to have somebody do this for me and my family," said Rev. Chico Daniels of Mel Trotter Ministries.

It was a day for families and friends to come together and a day for those who can to give to those who can't.

"It's just nice to know I can help someone out who doesn't have as much as I do," said volunteer Kristen Stanley.

A day filled with warm food and conversation, something that the people participating were truly thankful for.