On November 10th, hundreds of people lined up by foot and car outside of The Salvation Army Siemon Family Youth Community Center in South Los Angeles—their anticipation fueled by the promise of a free turkey and sides for their upcoming Thanksgiving feast.

The distribution emerged as the CMA CGM Foundation donated 1,500 16-lb turkeys and essential food staple bags to The Salvation Army.

The event was barrier-free, with no required sign-ups or ID checks.

The initiative is part of the CMA CGM Foundation’s “Giving Across North America” campaign, which expects to provide 133,000 meals across the US and Canada during this holiday season.

As food insecurity is on the rise- The Salvation Army continues to do all it can to feed our neighbors in need.

Divisional Secretary for Metro Los Angeles Major Lisa Barnes said the challenges of hunger are evident as people lined up for the giveaway at 6 a.m., over four hours before the distribution began.

If you’re in need of assistance, or if you’d like to volunteer, visit SALVATIONARMYUSA.ORG to find a location near you.