Thousands of people received free meals Thursday in Trumbull County just in time for Christmas.

No food shortage or even the recent loss of their beloved Pastor Chris Gilger, stopped the Warren Family Mission from their annual Community Christmas.

There was an assembly line of over 35 volunteers cooking and packing warm meals for almost 2,500 people, including to-go meals and delivery right to those who need it.

"Four thousand pounds of ham, 3,000 rolls, 4,000 cookies... That's a lot of cookies," Dominic Mararri with the Warren Family Mission said, "30 gallons of pineapple sauce... 30 gallons of vegetables... It takes a lot. We've been planning and preparing all week."

The Warren Family Mission also gave out 350 toys and ten bikes all children have a chance to win, as well as a choice of a whole turkey or ham for families to take home.

"In a world where supplies are limited, trying to even gather up the essentials and put a meal together like this...we have to go out stacking ahead, weeks ahead of the meals," Mararri said. 

Weeks of effort that goes a long way, especially for those who don't know where their next meal is coming from, making their Christmas a little brighter.

The Warren Mission wants to remind the community on Monday, December 27th, Pastor Chris Gigler's memorial service will be held at 5pm at the Warren Family Mission on Tod Avenue.