Three area churches stepped up to help feed the need in the community on Thanksgiving day, providing turkey dinners with all the trimmings to dozens of residents.

By noon at Divine Temple’s lunch at the East Brewton Civic Center, more than 80 people had received a plate of homemade food.

Pastor Doug Greer said the church’s Thanksgiving dinner, now in its third year, is something he has always wanted to do.

“When you see someone who really needs a meal, it really makes you feel good,” he said.

First United Methodist Church served a free Thanksgiving lunch for the first time Thursday, and Christ Kingdom Ministry Center served for the second year.

First Methodist volunteers served up turkey and dressing, with a gift at each plate called a “Blessings Mix,” with each item a symbol of love and thanksgiving.

“No one in Brewton should go hungry today,” First Methodist member Mike Sasser said.