Midland Texas – The staff at Salvation Army said they had an unusual increase of those in need of  a holiday lunch Saturday, with almost double their daily average passing through the soup kitchen’s doors.

Normal lunchtime rush usually consists of about 30-40 people, Ben LeBow, corps assistant said.  While the organization did have more volunteers, staff still did not know exactly why there was an increase.  Usually around the holidays, the area sees fewer in need of food on Christmas because many are spending time with their families; it’s only after the start of the new-year that staff say, they see more coming in needing help.

Salvation Army is asking Midland residents with holiday leftovers to donate them to the agency to be served to feed the increasing number of people coming through the soup kitchen.  The Christmas holiday may be over, but the group is still seeking help for the season.  Turkeys donated last week were cooked for the Christmas meal, and LeBow said the organization will also take breads and canned foods.  Leftover snacks from holiday parties or goodies in Christmas tins also will be accepted.

Tuesday through Friday, boxes of food are put together from items stocked in the warehouse and pantry and passed out to those in the community needing to feed their families. Items to be included in those boxes are also in need of donations.

“Any donations are always welcome,” LeBow said. “We serve three hot meals a day, so any donations help.”