More than 200 people came out to the Grace Lighthouse Fellowship Church for a free Thanksgiving meal on Saturday after the church expanded its outreach campaign for the annual event.

The holiday feast — including turkey and all the fixings — was served to hundreds of people in need across Wareham.

Pastor Dave Beguerie said the Church has been working to expand its annual outreach over the last three years. In 2016 the church had enough food for up to 140 guests, while on Saturday it served dinner nearly twice that. 

Beguerie believes “there is a need” in Wareham for these types of offerings. 

“People are lonely,” said Beguerie. “What we share in this church is the greatest message offered to the planet through Christ and we want everyone to hear that but also see it in action. That’s kind of our heartbeat — we really want to show the community members that we care about them.”

Fifty volunteers, including 11-year-old Mia Marsh, were busy preparing stuffing, pies and 20 turkeys on Saturday morning. 

“I want to volunteer next year as well because I enjoyed helping people today,” said Marsh. 

Despite the multitude of preparations required, volunteers coordinated their efforts so the process ran smoothly. 

“Because everybody worked together, there was really no challenges,” said volunteer Vickie Michaed. “It was a great team effort.”

Guests filled their plates to the brim and expressed their gratitude for a hot meal. 

“I am so happy I have a chance to be here and I am so happy my children can eat meat and these desserts that they have been dreaming about,” said Amy Miller.

This year, the Church officially acknowledged first responders for their service and thanked those serving in the US military. 

For more information on Grace Lighthouse Fellowship, visit www.gracelighthouse.org.