MILWAUKEE — Volunteers brought their holiday cheer Monday as they prepared for thousands at Salvation Army of Milwaukee’s Christmas Day feast.
This year marks the Salvation Army of Milwaukee’s 35th annual Christmas Day feast.
Head Chef Bernhard Trivalos leads the charge, preparing holiday meals with volunteers inside the Baird Center kitchen to prep for Wisconsin’s largest Christmas Day feast.
“The entire facility is huge,” said Chef Bernhard. “It’s actually just a beautiful kitchen. I mean, it’s wonderful.”
It’s a massive undertaking—with over 400 volunteers helping throughout a six-day prep process, handling everything from cooking to set up.
Shelley McClintock, a Major at the Salvation Army, said this tradition is as much about community as it is about food.
“It’s amazing,” said McClintock. “It’s such a blessing to see so many people want to give to others for other people who are just looking for that fellowship. It’s a tremendous blessing.”
For Chef Bernhard, the best part of the day is seeing the kids light up with joy.
“Especially when they go up to see Santa Claus,” said Bernhard. “They got their apple pie or cherry pie or dessert and they’re running around all excited. It’s just nice because there’s a lot of people and outside the community that don’t get a hot meal every day.”
He said the volunteers are the real heroes of the season who make sure everyone is fed and happy on the holiday.
“Without their help, there is no way this could be done by two people,” he said.