TEHACHAPI, Calif. -- Jake’s Steakhouse has provided Thanksgiving day meals for families in need for four years now, and even though the tough economy has hit the restaurant, the owner, Barbara Ferrante, said that wasn’t going to stop her from hosting the holiday meal.

“These are people who are struggling, like we all are, and Jake’s has been struggling and we’re very happy that the community has kept our doors open and it was something we had to do and wanted to do," said Ferrante.

But unlike the past years, this Thaksgiving day feast may not have been possible without the help of donations from other community businesses and individuals.

Ferrante said, “It would have been very difficult for me because like I said, the economy is really bad and it’s been a struggle to keep the doors open and pay all those bills, so the donations were a great help.”

Also a big help, the dozens of volunteers who gave up a part of their day to help serve meals to those in need.

Some even decided to make the day a family affair and learning experience for young children.

Kele Main brought her three kids to help serve meals Thursday afternoon.

“There are so many people in need right here in our own cities, our own countries, our own states, and I just feel, I want my kids to grow up not just thinking of themselves but of the people who are in need, that they can give to right here in their own town,” said Main.

And for the folks receiving the tradtional Thanksgiving meal many said it’s not just about getting a free meal, but having the opportunity to have a holiday meal surrounded by their family.

Deborah Clifton, who was at the restaurant with her family to eat said, “Well, its not so much that it is free, it’s just that it brings us all together at one time and it’s important for families to be together especially on holidays and to give thanks together.”

Ferrante agreed, saying it’s not only about serving food.

She said the day is also meant to bring the community together.