Volunteers help spread holiday cheer across Detroit through Christmas day events

DETROIT, Mich. (WXYZ) - Volunteers spent part of their Christmas spreading the spirit of the holiday season across Detroit.

500 guests were served a Christmas day lunch at the Capuchin Soup Kitchen.  40 volunteers worked to serve the meal.  Each child also received a Christmas present.  The Capuchins have provided food, clothing and spiritual counsel to those in need since 1929.

Members of American Legion Post 396 from Garden City came out to serve a group of veterans who now call Piquette Square home. The facility serves vets who had fallen into homelessness.

"They're a bunch of awesome people," said Dave Spiteri, who is part of the post's Legion Riders. "They gave for their country and we want to give back to them. That's the bottom line."

Detroit's Jewish community and members of the area's Muslim community also helped served the meal on Mitzvah Day.  For the third straight year the two communities have come together to take part in good deeds to aid 40 Detroit area social service agencies.

A bicycle giveaway has become an annual tradition at Detroit's Greater Grace Temple.  This year, 200 children received shiny, new bikes after Christmas Day services at the church.