Volunteers served Christmas meals to about 100 people at the First Presbyterian Church of Rutherford.

The large turnout last year prompted organizers to order more food and move to the gym so they could accommodate more people.

Organizers say the church works closely with the Rutherford Food Pantry and says the number of people who come to them grows every year.

Those who attended, like Gail Van Miert, were grateful for the company.

"Being alone on Christmas is no fun," she says.

While the pantry offers a hot meal and a warm haven, it also provides company to those in need.

"Something we believe very strongly is the need to connect with others," says Pastor Peter Wilkinson. "Nothing's better on a day like this than to eat food and sit around the table and recognize you aren't alone."