VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – It’s an occasion that will see thousands through the door and the coordination of hundreds of volunteers.

The Union Gospel Mission on the Downtown Eastside is hosting its annual Thanksgiving Day dinner. The feast includes 170 turkeys, 1,500 pounds of potatoes and 80 gallons of gravy.

Lots of the 200 people volunteering at the UGM locations have a very personal connection to the centre.

“I came through these doors more than a year ago,” explains Frederic, who served coffee to the masses. “I needed some drastic change in my life and this is where they opened up their arms to me and helped me get back on track with my life.”

For many who come through the door, it’s about having a hot meal with some good company.

“I’m out here by myself, so why not have a turkey dinner with some friends. It’s another day you don’t have to go hungry,” says one man.

“Not only me, but other people wouldn’t have anything if wasn’t for UGM,” notes another man.

The UGM’s various centres served around 3,000 people.