POCATELLO - The Pocatello Senior Citizens Center was packed for the annual Whitworth Thanksgiving dinner.

The first thing on most people's list is a good meal.

But many of the regulars also like the chance to catch-up with their friends. David Robertson, a regular said, "I think it's a fantastic idea."

278 Thanksgiving meals were delivered to people around the Gate City thanks to the Whitworth dinner, and within an hour more than 95 people had been served in house. Robertson said,"They put out a really good mean, for one thing. I mean I haven't seen anybody that's been unhappy about it."

Organizers believe more people than usual took advantage of the free meal, but they're happy to help.

And for those on the receiving end its a big benefit. Loran Guyaz, attending for seven years said, "They can't afford to go out and get the stuff to make a dinner. As a matter of fact, some people have to worry about whether to eat, or get their medications."

But it's not just the patrons who enjoy the annual dinner.

Many volunteers return each hear to help wash dishes, serve food, or just talk. Mackenzie Groves, a volunteer said, "We come here because we actually like helping out, and helping the people, and meeting the people here. It's fun."}

For Groves this is her eighth year helping.

She loves the atmosphere, and the feeling of doing something worthwhile. Groves said, "It's good. I think I accidentally helped so many people that I helped people that were already helped."

The Whitworth dinner is largely put together through donations, and discounts from local stores. "They do a good job," said Groves.

The dinner is now it its 14th year.

Lin Whitworth who started it tells me he is glad to see so many people helping, that way it will easily continue on in the future.