Volunteers deliver a day of thanks and giving

It is an untraditional holiday tradition a special delivery of a Thanksgiving dinner. For volunteers like James Hart it’s more than providing food.

"To me this is just a great way to spend retirement,” said Hart.

For Ruby Bradley the visit is almost like having family over.

"That’s a gift from God; I really believe that when that happens and they knock on the door I say I’m coming, you know its exciting, I’m glad to get my dinner. My food yes. And meet those people? Yes and meet the people, the people come first with me, the food is second, but the food does help a lot,” said Bradley.

The day starts with staff members preparing almost 500 individual meals.

The operation scoops out 150 pounds of pork loin. 120 pounds of dressing and 120 pounds of peas and carrots. Turkey isn’t on the menu because it was served Wednesday for all 2,600 clients.

Governor Greg Abbott was among the volunteers delivering meals. First Lady Cecilia Abbott is a regular Meals On Wheels team member but this was a first for the governor.

"We are all blessed as Texans and I think we all have the opportunity and responsibility to give back to those who are unable to get out and this is a way we can share the blessings we have with our fellow Texans,” said Governor Abbott.

Actor Matthew McConaughey brought several members of his family to help make deliveries. It’s become a tradition for them.

"Yeah, just look at the name on the day, Thanksgiving, you know we've pretty much in our family and our foundation talk about how gratitude, the more you have the more you actually going to create in life, to be thankful for, and boy I’ve got a long list of stuff to be thankful for, I’ve been very fortunate my who family as well,” said McConaughey.

The program has grown from preparing meals for 30 individuals to nearly 3000 and it's more than just food. Case management services and home repairs are provided and there's even food for pets. The expansion of services is only a reflection of the growing need in the community.

"There is nothing any more basic than a good hot meal on the table delivered by somebody who cares about you, especially on a day like thanksgiving,” said Meals on Wheels CEO Dan Pruett.

The need, of course, will always be there because there will always be someone waiting like Ruby Bradley.

It's just a simple act of giving to be thankful for, which can make any day a holiday.