SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP)--Many organizations in Western Massachusetts have begun handing out Thanksgiving meals, including one that has been providing services to the needy since 1892. The Springfield Rescue Mission hosted community members for their annual Thanksgiving banquet Wednesday, providing a place to eat with family. Rock 102’s Mayflower Marathon breaks all time record donations Executive director Kevin Ramsdell said many members of the community live in apartments where there is not enough room for family to come over for the holiday, so the Rescue Mission helps to provide a larger place to gather and eat a classic thanksgiving meal with family and friends. "It's just an awesome time again to reflect back on how thankful we are, because this is the season of gratitude," remarked Ramsdell. "And just to get families together and share the love over a meal and be able to communicate with one another. Its just awesome to sit back and watch the smiling faces and children light up when they start eating." One volunteer told 22News he volunteers every year and the Rescue Mission has created a community with familiar faces each time. Ramsdell said the need is greater this year with the less fortunate and those experiencing food insecurity. The meal was free for all thanks to donations from the community. Some meals were delivered in the morning, while others were either enjoyed at tables with others, or picked up in the drive thru line.