Ontario Salvation Army serves 1,000 Thanksgiving meals

The center serves 10 cities in the Inland Empire, including Rancho Cucamonga, Upland, Montclair and Chino.

"A hot meal on today for most people is like a saving grace or a blessing," said Tapia, who brought her own family with her from San Antonio Heights to volunteer.

"Some people don't have family members or they just want to be in the company of other and to have a day they can share."

Full meals were served between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Families gathered on the hall's tables where each place setting had an apple or orange as well as a Pop-Tarts pastry and a fruit cup.

The Salvation Army also opened its pantry for those seeking canned goods

For those who couldn't visit the hall for a meal, to-go containers were given out and deliveries were even made.

For the Garcia family of Fontana, coming to the Salvation Army is a tradition.

"We've been coming here since we were little," said Christina Garcia, 17. "We hardly get to spend time together so this time is special."

Christina's younger brother Brian said he looks forward to the annual holiday, especially the turkey. And as siblings go, Brian's giggled as he got caught gnawing on a turkey wing.

"It was really good," he said.