While Thanksgiving is still five days away, it came a little early for 1,000 Colorado Springs residents. Saturday, Circle Drive Baptist Church didn't turn anyone away who wanted a free meal. The church has done does this every year for the past 22 years.

“It costs us nothing. Our people bring everything,” says Dr. Mike Routt, senior pastor at Circle Drive Baptist Church. The congregation donated more than 50 turkeys and 130 pumpkin pies. It was enough food to feed at least 1,000 people.

They also donated their time to serve those in need. “My unit is deployed to Afghaninstan. I'm home on a mid-tour leave, so one of the things I do is volunteer for this Thanksgiving dinner," says Captain Robert Schoenenberger, a Fort Carson soldier. He spent his Saturday afternoon, along with his family, helping out.

One mother brought her three boys; two of them are celebrating their birthdays. "So, I’m taking them out for their birthday dinner," says Aykiya Kearse.

Since several other organizations serve Thanksgiving dinner on the actual day, the church pastor says this is an early way to put a smile on someone's face.

"These people who are helping the homeless, I'm thankful for that," says Edward Johnson, who has fallen on some hard time.

After dinner, they also got free coats, hats and gloves.

The leftover food was donated to the Marian House in Colorado Springs.