More than 350 people gathered at Windsor's Downtown Mission for a warm Thanksgiving meal and good company.

That includes Sandra Hunter, who is grateful she has a place to go for the holiday.

"It reminds me of when I was younger and my mom was alive," says Hunter.

"We are one big happy family here and everyone gets along," she adds.

It takes a lot to put on such a huge spread for 350 guests.

"Thirteen turkeys, 100 lbs of yams and 34 pumpkin pies will go out the door today," says Roger Fordham of the Downtown Mission.

The number of people turning to the Mission has increased 7% each year for the past two years for the Thanksgiving tradition.

Hunter adds despite her health, finances, and unemployment challenges, the Mission has always been there.

"Thank you. Thanksgiving has given me a second chance at life," Hunter says.