SALVATION ARMY VOLUNTEERS SHOW LOVE FOR THE NEEDY

About 150 Salvation Army volunteers sacrificed their Thanksgivings to brighten the lives of those in need at the Manhattan headquarters.

“Many of the people we are serving, they’re the invisible in our society,” said 31-year Salvation Army Major Lurlene-Kay Johnson. “We walk by and just ignore it. So today I want them to know they matter.”

Those in need of help arriving at the W. 14th St. building were treated to a scrumptious, free meal of turkey, mashed potatoes, cranberries and sweet potatoes. Volunteers also encouraged guests to take to-go food boxes for friends and family members.

Among the youngest volunteers was 8-year-old Laylah Colon, a third-grader

spending the holiday with her dad, who is also a volunteer. She buzzed around the ballroom filled with about 20 tables offering cream and sugar for the guests' coffee.

“It makes me feel nice and happy,” said Laylah. “I was excited when my dad said I could help all these people.”

The Salvation Army also distributed coats, toiletries, socks and underwear.

“The Salvation Army opens their hearts to people. It's Thanksgiving Day and I'm here,” said Brooklyn resident Nequa Robinson. “I've been coming here for years. They look at you like you're one of their own people. Some people don't have the blessing to eat and the Salvation Army does it out of the kindness of their hearts.”

Some people came from as far as Staten Island for a warm meal, including Michael Telesford.

“This is awesome. All these people are willing to help out; it makes me feel good about other people,” said 21-yearold Telesford. “Despite the bad stuff going on and all the rude people in this city, there is still goodness.”