Known as a community "helper," the City Welfare Mission gets by with help from a few helpers of its own.

The mission helps thousands of people each year but it is the volunteers working tirelessly behind the scenes that make it possible - volunteers like Marie and Elroy Howard Sr.

The Pedro couple have volunteered at the mission almost daily for more than eight years. They help organize the clothes that will be provided to needy families and individuals.

"We like working and helping people," Marie said as she meticulously folded shirt after shirt. "We don't have any kids at home, so we just like to be at home. I have made some good friends."

Last year alone, the mission helped 4,405 families in a myriad of ways including food orders, utility payments, clothing, furniture, Christmas toys and food and meals.

The volunteer service has been rewarding for them in so many ways, Marie said. Only recently did the Howards start attending the church at which they were saved.

For Elroy, volunteering at the church and mission that helps so many helps them feel like they can really make a difference.

"Both of us just really like to volunteer here," he said.

Associate Director Jeff Cremeans said the mission has about 10 or 12 volunteers each week and many more around the holidays. Cremeans called all the volunteers priceless.

"Without volunteers, we couldn't provide all the services that we do," he said. "Marie and Elroy come and give many hours. We are blessed with them."