BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — The Mission at Kern County is hosting its annual community meal for Christmas Eve.

Every year hundreds of men, women and children spend the holiday enjoying a tradition Christmas meal at The Mission.

Local leader Congressman Kevin McCarthy went to help this year's meal.

"We love what the mission does, this has been a family tradition, and just acknowledge that we believe so much in the mission that my wife joined the board," said McCarthy. "And when you think of the season and what this is all about that Christ gave his life for us. What a better way to give back to those in a time of need."

This year The Mission gave a special gift to each person who attends, subject to availability.

The holiday meal was made possible through monetary donations, community food drives, fundraisers and 'adopt-a-meal programs.'

The event ran from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 821 E. 21st St. in East Bakersfield.