For three days volunteers at the First Baptist Church of Ironton prepared a full Thanksgiving dinner for the second annual event.

“Last year there wasn’t too many people here,” Eric Barnes, pastor, said. “We’ve only been serving now for 30 minutes and we’ve had more than we did last year.”

The meal is geared for those needing a Thanksgiving meal, whether because of economic reasons or they will be alone on the holiday.

In 2013 the church’s dinner took place the same day as the city mission’s, which Barnes said drove down the number of people who took advantage.

“This year we made sure we had it on a different day,” Barnes said. “By doing this we increase the chances that everyone will get to eat. We also announced it earlier and through more channels to make sure we got the word out.”

Barnes said the plan is leftover food would be given to the jail and the juvenile home.

“We plan and hope to give it all away,” Barnes said.

Although much of the food was purchased by the church, Barnes and volunteer Kay Davidson said support from local grocery stores, businesses and the church’s congregation went a long way in providing the meal.

Davidson said several cakes were donated by Tipton’s Traditions and Pick n’ Save and eight of the 32 turkeys prepared and served were donated as well.

“Members of our congregation signed up to donate items and a lot of the green beans and corn came from them,” Barnes said. “Area grocery stores donated and every little thing helps us out greatly. One of the best things about being in a small down is how much everyone helps each other out. Everyone works together on everything it seems.”