The Selma Times-Journal

Patricia Green likes to help people in need. She spent Thanksgiving washing dinner dishes from more than 200 guests at The Bosco Food Kitchen.

Without volunteers none of it would be possible, said Mary Gayle, who has served as director for the past 21 years.

Green is a licensed cosmetologist. She has her own business, Exquisite Hair Design in Camden, and works at Goody’s department store part time.

The need for the Bosco soup kitchen at 1006 Union St. is great.

Green said she knows because she grew up in the area.

The Edmundite Missions, celebrating 70 years of service through a variety of ministries the Father of St. Edmund sponsor, have been there since she was a child.

Green said she applauded the Missions for its work in the community, and the dedicated staff.

The endeavor has won over Gayle’s daughter, Tonya Gayle, who lives in Atlanta and works in food prep in the school system. She was home for Thanksgiving with her 8-year-old son, Detravion.

Stepping right in, Tonya Gayle prepped a second batch of dressing to be served with the 16 turkeys baked for Thanksgiving dinner. The rest of the menu included gravy, sweet peas, cranberry sauce, macaroni and cheese, and sweet tea. And then there was desert.

Volunteers, like Charles Tyler, get satisfaction from helping others. Tyler served meals to anyone that came up.

The staff and volunteers at the Bosco center ask no questions, only that entrants sign in. Mary Gayle said some don’t sign in, and that’s okay too.

Nobody is denied.