The Salvation Army in Massachusetts has been spreading holiday cheer with gift bags.

The Salvation Army in Massachusetts has been spreading holiday cheer with gift bags filled with food.

During Thanksgiving, adults and elderly people in Cambridge and Somerville who could not afford their own feasts were treated to a full turkey dinner, complete with vegetables and all the trimmings.

Now with Christmas round the corner, Captain Armida LaMarr, commanding officer for these areas for the Salvation Army, is keen to promote the service to those in need.

Speaking to the Cambridge Chronicle, he said: "We won't turn anyone away. We want to be the place where people can have their needs met. We want to be the place where people feel respected so they are comfortable asking for help."

Throughout Thanksgiving, the charity delivered food bags to 300 households across the two communities, while over 100 people were served with a meal at its centre on the day.

However, they estimate that there are more than 50 families in the area who also need assistance this Christmas and may not be able to afford presents, heating or a proper meal.

The Salvation Army is hoping to attract more dedicated volunteers and donations from local people to help ensure that the holiday season is a joyous occasion for everyone in the area, regardless of their financial situation.

Staff members at the charity are determined to make certain that nobody feels invisible and unsure of asking for help, especially during the festive season, where expectations are high and budgets are stretched even further.

Mr LaMarr went on to say: "We're so grateful for everyone reaching out to us. We try to always be the little engine that could, but we can't do it by ourselves. We need people in the communities to help us so that we can help others."

Anyone wanting to help spread a little seasonal cheer can donate to the charity or volunteer to pack bags or help out in the local soup kitchen.

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