On Thanksgiving, locals in need of food and a place to stay gathered in the Flagstaff Shelter. As people entered, they were asked to empty their pockets of any sharp objects and to check in with the shelter’s staff.

As soon as everyone attending the dinner was accounted for, the white folding tables were brought out and lines for the Thanksgiving feast began to form.

Volunteers helped serve the dinner that included turkey, mashed potatoes, salad, green beans and yams. Those eating sat at their tables chattered quietly. Some went back for seconds, some just went into another room to relax and let the Thanksgiving meal settle.

After dinner, the leftovers were put into plastic bags for those who wanted it and the white dinner tables were put back against the wall.

People who eat and stay at the shelter must earn their keep by doing chores. The chores can include sweeping and mopping the floor, doing the dishes and emptying the trash.

When the chores are complete, those who are staying the night are free to do as they please.

Some sat in front of the computers and took advantage of the free Internet access while others read books; nearly everyone headed to bed with full stomachs.

See below for a photo slideshow of the event.