At the River of Life Mission on the corner of Maunakea Street and North Pauahi, more than 150 volunteers served up about 600 Thanksgiving feasts to area homeless and those who just needed a hot meal.

"The mission shows a lot of love for the homeless," said Ronald Moreno, 42, of Wai'anae, who dined at the mission yesterday with his wife, Maria. "This is home away from home."

Rann Watumull, president of the mission's volunteer board of directors, said the center would deliver 200 more meals to senior centers around the island.

"They (the homeless) can come here and feel part of a community that really cares about them," Watumull said. "And they get a great meal."

Christa Thomas, with Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc.'s Hawaii Alumnae Chapter, was among 150 volunteers serving Thanksgiving meals to 600 people at the River of Life Mission in Chinatown. Gregory Yamamoto • The Honolulu Advertiser

"This is a vital part of our community," said Aiona, who stressed the importance of dealing with Hawai'i's growing homeless problem. "During this time of year, it is important to serve the people in need."

A long line of hungry people lined the 'ewa sidewalk on Maunakea Street yesterday morning as they waited for space to open up at the eight tables in the mission's office. Volunteers from several organizations helped by serving turkey, stuffing and other traditional Thanksgiving dishes.

"There are many people not as fortunate as most of us and it is very important to give back," said Christa Thomas, one of 15 volunteers from the Delta Sigma Theta sorority working at the shelter yesterday.

Across town at the Neal Blaisdell Center Exhibition Hall, The Salvation Army held its 34th annual Thanksgiving dinner for more than 2,000 homeless, elderly and disenfranchised individuals. While more than 800 volunteers set up tables and put down orange-and-brown place settings, the guests were treated to the stand-up comedy of Frank DeLima and a hula show.

Dave Hudson, Salvation Army divisional commander, said the event was a blessing for people who would be alone on the holiday.

"It gives people that have no place else to go a place to come and be together," he said. "It's a great opportunity to be with people."

As the guests waited for Mayor Jeremy Harris to carve the turkey, mothers chased children through the maze of folding chairs and tables, and some older folks found time to take a nap. Ushers dressed in yellow shirts herded large groups of volunteers and gave them last-minute instructions.

"If you have a good home growing up you will continue to strive and help other people," said James Copeland, 28.

Harris walked through the groups of volunteers yesterday shaking hands and saying hello. He said the dinner was a special event that fostered an inclusive atmosphere.

"The thousands of people that come (here), they may be alone for the rest of the year but today they're part of an extended family," said Harris as he prepared to address the lunchtime crowd.

After a decade as Honolulu's mayor, yesterday's turn at turkey carving would be Harris' last as the city's top official.

"It will be my last day as mayor carving the turkey but it's been a wonderful 20 years, (10 as managing director, 10 as mayor). My family and I have a lot to be thankful for," Harris said.

While the guests got the best deal at both the River of Life Mission and The Salvation Army, volunteers were who made the day of charity possible. At both feasts, volunteers served food, bused tables, picked up trash and did whatever they could to keep things running smoothly.

The volunteers did this, and sacrificed their time on a day meant most for families and loved ones.

"Giving thanks should be an everyday thing," said Larry Hicks, 22, and a visitor from Macon, Ga. "Why would I be selfish when I can help out? If you have a good heart you shouldn't keep that inside you."