BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) -- As Thanksgiving Day nears, there are many around town who won't be able to celebrate, but one couple is trying to change that one prayer and one meal at a time. It's a real Thanksgiving feast at the Praise Center of Bakersfield, where they believe they're feeding over 400 people. Anita Shaw said this event started 33 years ago -- born out of a desire to help others. "We started it in the side of my yard," said Shaw. "We used to make boxes to feed the people, homeless people, and also people that were less fortunate." Now, it's bigger than ever. So big, there's a line down the entire block, and too big for her little yard. So, they've moved it to the Praise Center of Bakersfield. Students rally for change during ‘Stop the Gun Violence Day’ "We've been here for nine years in this building," said Shaw. Shaw's husband, Ryan, says they don't just give out food either. "Clothes, we've also got blankets, we've got beanies, we've got socks," said Ryan Shaw. "All that stuff is new." Dozens, maybe hundreds of pounds of food are opened up as the people pour in. Esteban Ponce is a frequent attendee when they host this annual event. This year, and every year, he's feeling thankful for the church's help as he gets on his feet. Kern County organizations ready to feed families in need for Thanksgiving "I'm here to support the church and the family," said Ponce. "It means a lot to me, because I've been through downfalls all the time." But the Shaws don't do it for the thanks. They say it's to show the love of God, and to be there for people who need it most. "It was just a thing I wanted to do," said Shaw. "And I'm from this community, so I grew up here, so I always wanted to be here in order to give back." If you'd like to help volunteer for next year's event, you can call Shaw at 661-340-6089.