NEW YORK, Nov. 25 /PRNewswire/ -- As the nation faces the most severe recession since the Great Depression, The Salvation Army Greater New York Division is expanding its annual Thanksgiving Dinner, feeding more than 10,000 hungry New Yorkers across the boroughs, Long Island, and Westchester - up from 800 meals in 2008 and one of the largest Thanksgiving Dinners in the Division's 129-year history.

Guests will consume 5,000 pounds of turkey breast; 2,500 pounds each of mashed potatoes, green beans, and yams; 150 gallons of gravy; 700 pounds of cranberry sauce; and 625 pumpkin and apple pies at 10 Salvation Army centers. Great Performances will cater, overseen by Chef Marc Spooner, champion of the Food Network's "Chopped."

The organization's annual holiday event ushers in Stand Together New York - an unprecedented three-year effort to raise $100 million.

"As one of New York's major social services provides, we have witnessed the human toll of the recession firsthand," explained Lt. Colonel Guy D. Klemanski, Divisional Commander. "We are committed to continuing The Salvation Army's tradition of stepping up when times are tough and know that New Yorkers will once again come together to help fellow New Yorkers."

The campaign will address increased demand for poverty relief programs, up 200 percent in some cases. It will earmark $15 million for hunger relief, $8 million for homeless services, $8 million for rent, utility, and basic needs assistance, $12 million for youth and education programs, and $27 million to help maintain its 39 neighborhood centers, which provide day care, support for senior citizens, and other services.

People from all walks of life are encouraged to stand shoulder to shoulder to support fundraising through One Red Kettle or via efforts hosted by partners WOR 710 NewsTalk Radio and Emmis Communications stations 101.9 RXP, KISS FM, and Hot97.

About The Salvation Army Greater New York Division: An integral part of the community for 129 years, The Salvation Army in Greater New York operates more than 140 community and social service programs serving more than 600,000 people, regardless of race, religion, nationality or sexual orientation. For more information, visit our website: www.salvationarmyny.org.

SOURCE The Salvation Army Greater New York Division

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