Tribune editorial staff

Turkey, dressing mashed potatoes and gravy, pumpkin pie - many of us will enjoy these foods and more Thursday.

Unfortunately, some people living in our communities will not have such delicacies on their tables this Thanksgiving. Those who choose to take advantage of the generosity of others, though, have someplace to turn.

For 37 years, the Ironton City Mission has been serving up Thanksgiving dinners to the less fortunate people of our area. Thanks to their kind hearts, pounds of turkey and the trimmings are cooked up so fewer people go hungry on this holiday. Last year alone, the City Mission last year served 448 people.

The dinner, however, is not just for those lacking the financial means to put a Thanksgiving dinner on the table. It also gives those who would otherwise have to stay at home alone during the holiday the opportunity to not only enjoy a meal, but also fellowship.

The Rev. Jim Cremeans and all of the volunteers who make this community Thanksgiving possible are truly hometown heroes. However, these folks cannot embark on such an endeavor without the generosity of the community.

Each year, businesses, churches, schools and individuals in our community step up to the plate so that the plates at the City Mission are filled with food.

The community realizes the importance of the work of the City Mission and supports it accordingly by donating food for the dinner, canned food for the food pantry, monetary gifts and clothing and toys at Christmastime.

The City Mission is a valuable part of the City of Ironton, and we are lucky to have it in our community. The tireless work of all of those who give of themselves so that needy people can have a good, nutritious meal this Thanksgiving is a reason for us to say "thanks."

We salute the City Mission and all who support it.