TEMPLE, Texas — Last year, Edward Rojas says he had almost lost hope.
"I'm always willing to share our story because it used to bring me to tears because no one really wanted to help us or showed that they wanted to," said Rojas. "Everyone here was gracious and willing to go the extra step with us."
Rojas and his wife had relocated to Texas, but with nowhere to turn, they sought help at The Salvation Army of Bell County. During their time in the shelter, Rojas became ill and had to be hospitalized.
A year later, Rojas is back...but this time to say thank you. Rojas even brought his grandchildren to show them the place and people that restored his hope and faith.
"You have to first accept it, that you need help," said Rojas. "...and that's the hardest part for a lot of people."
In the Salvation Army kitchen in Temple, the smell of turkey and all the fixings fills the air.
"We have an army of volunteers that come in and take their plates to the table, just like a server would in a restaurant," said Captain David Beckham of the Salvation Army. "The idea is we just want people to feel special. We want them to feel loved and appreciated and this is our opportunity to do that."
Two young boys who are staying in the shelter with their mother are helping decorate the tables and waiting excitedly for their Thanksgiving meal.
"Most people come here without much hope and that's what we're here to do, we're here to provide hope for individuals that might have lost that along the way," said Beckham.
Serving the community includes veterans. Through a Veteran's Administration contract, the Salvation Army opened a shelter specifically for male veterans across from the main shelter in Temple.
"There are a great number of veterans in need and we're just happy to bridge the gap between the VA and the assistance they need," said Beckham.
Sometimes that means a warm meal and a helping hand. The Rojas family feels it made a difference in their lives.
"My message would be...have hope," said Rojas. "Don't lose all hope out there. There's still a lot to live for. A whole lot."
If you'd like to volunteer for the Salvation Army or learn more about their programs, you can visit their website at this link.
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