Salvation Army feeds 3,800 in Tucson

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TUCSON - The Salvation Army fed more than 3,800 people today. The annual meal is a tradition for some and a blessing for others.

Abe Valenzuela III has been volunteering at this dinner since he was six years old. He helped out with decorations his first year. Now he's supervising other volunteers. His father and sister are helping out too.

Abe says, "It's been a family tradition for so long. It started out as something my dad wanted to do for us to bring my family and I closer together."

They've been working the Salvation Army's Christmas dinner for 21 years and turkey day for 17 years.

Abe says, "We just love to be together and just love to help out people."

And they're extra busy this holiday season. Major Peter Clack of the Salvation Army tells us this year is a major endeavor. He says, "There are more people who are needing, who are dependent, who haven't got jobs, who are out of homes."

Richard Lund and his family of friends attended the meal.

Lund says, "We couldn't put together a Thanksgiving dinner at our home. There's no way."

Lund has been out of work for five years because of disabilities. He doesn't take this dinner for granted. He says, "We're sure thankful you put this on for us every year."

And that's what keeps Abe and his family coming back every year.

He says, "I never met more thankful people in my life. They're always so nice, polite, respectful. And I'm just happy to be a part of it. I'm happy to be able to help them."