Rescue Mission Christmas Feast Feeds Hundreds

Nearly 300 people in need got a hot holiday meal and Christmas gifts at the Santa Barbara Rescue Mission Tuesday afternoon.

“It feels so good! It feels like you’re alive. I can’t stop smiling,” said Deborah Gonzalez, who enjoyed fruit salad before her meal.

Gonzalez was one of the first people in line for the Christmas feast at the Rescue Mission. She said it’s not just about the home-cooked food.

“Something inside makes you feel really overjoyed. This is my deal to come every year,” she said.

The entire dining room was decked out for the holidays, including a tree, twinkling lights and stockings.

“Being homeless is difficult every day of the year, but it’s especially different during the holidays as you might be missing traditions or family. That’s what makes this day so special. We’re able to kind of recreate that for people,” said Rolf Geyling, the Rescue Mission president.

Just like for every meal that comes out of the kitchen, the men in the recovery program create restaurant-quality dishes for hundreds of hungry people.

“Everybody pitches in, nobody slacks. It’s a great brotherly atmosphere,” said Daniel Robinson, a participant in the men’s recovery program.

“It just feels good to be able to step up and fill in a role and have everybody enjoy themselves and put a smile on their faces and be able to give back,” said Anton Lewis, another participant in the men’s recovery program.

As the needy enjoyed the day, volunteers served them as many plates as they wanted.

“It’s them receiving but it’s also we’re receiving by giving. So we really get a lot out of it as well,” said volunteer Stan Archuletta.

After filling up on food, the guests got to pick out gifts, including shoes, socks, jackets and toys.