Las Vegas Rescue Mission serves Thanksgiving dinner a day early

Sitting at a table alone, Emily Bunkers finishes her mashed potatoes with a smile. Despite her bright red sweater, it's her constant blessings and thank-yous that make her stand out.

Bunker, who has been homeless for the past year, lost her job, house and family because of her drug addiction. She recently turned to the Las Vegas Rescue Mission for daily meals and companionship.

"It's such a blessing to be able to come here and be treated this well," Bunker says. "It's the season of giving thanks, and that's what I'm here to do."

The Las Vegas Rescue Mission held its annual Thanksgiving community dinner Wednesday evening at its shelter at 480 W. Bonanza Road. The meal was served on Wednesday so that other charities could offer their community dinners later in the week.

"We didn't coordinate with other organizations so that people could attend five dinners this weekend, although they could if they wanted," says John Fogal, the mission's director of development. "We did it so that people could choose which dinner to come to based on their available resources and situations."

The mission is also hosting a Thanksgiving meal today for its residents. Fogal predicts the mission will serve about 1,500 meals to the homeless and others in need during the two days.

"We made sure that we have enough food. We will not run out," Fogal says.

"To be able to say that with such confidence is a testament and a thank-you to the community, individuals, businesses, organizations and churches who make this possible."

Resident Damien Robinson says eating a Thanksgiving meal at the mission makes him feel like he is with family.

"It's a great feeling to know that people have this much compassion," Robinson says. "It kind of gives me hope."

The meals were prepared by three kitchen staff members and more than 300 volunteers during the previous five days. Volunteers have been sorting cans, cutting vegetables and preparing turkeys since Saturday.

Among them were volunteers from The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, who donated leftover food from their restaurant kitchens.

"Part of our core values is to be part of the community, and we encourage all our 'co-stars' to volunteer," says Cindy O'Keefe, vice president of hotel operations.

"It really gives you a reality check and allows you to feel like a human again. I'm very humbled by my experiences."

The mission's dining room is open daily to anyone who is homeless or in need of food. On average, it serves more than 1,000 meals each day.

Robinson finishes his meal and briefly people-watches before gathering his things to leave.

"I see it as you either have the spirit to give and help, or you don't," he says. "The people who work here do a great job, and I admire it."

Contact reporter Caitlyn Belcher at cbelcher@ reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0264.