Thousands of donations are helping needy families this holiday season and today a small army of volunteers got the chance to actually meet the families they've been working so hard to help. A drive through-type of delivery system went very smoothly for families and the Salvation Army volunteers alike.

The Salvation Army had a 20 percent increase in the amount of people they helped this year compared to 2008. More than 1400 families will wake up to a nice meal and presents to open on Christmas morning.

More than 360 bikes, 1500 toys, and thousands of pounds of food were collected and wheeled out to the families in shopping carts. Volunteers say all of their hard work was worth it and those receiving assistance say they're thankful for all those who took the time to help.

Fourteen-year-old Austin Marshall has been volunteering with the Salvation Army's Christmas program for three years. He says, "Being able to see the gratitude on their faces shows that we're making a difference."

As for those receiving assistance, Lupita Aker says, "This helps a lot. Because of them, we got our stuff, kids got their toys and we got our food so thank you to every volunteer."

The Salvation Army says those who need help this holiday season can still stop by the main store on Catalina Drive if they need food.