One hundred-and-seventy-four men, women and children lined up outside St. Francis Diner for its annual Thanksgiving feast Tuesday.

Turkey, ham, sweet potatoes, corn and rice dressing were dished up by dozens of volunteers for those in need of a hot, well-rounded meal.

Ronald James Foster, a regular visitor of the St. Francis Diner, said he thanks God for it and the many donations that people in the community make.

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“There is love being spread through this place, and we need more of that in the world,” Foster said. “You meet a lot of friends and warm people here and especially during the holidays.”

Visitors also were treated to performances by the Louisiana Kids.

Stephanie Richardson, show producer for the Louisiana Kids, said the group has performed at the diner for a number of years.

“We are a nonprofit organization, and it is our mission to promote self esteem in children from 3-years-old to high school seniors,” Richardson said. “Through performing arts they grow in their personal lives, and we do a lot of community service events like this which are a great place for the kids to come and share their talents with others. The kids love coming out here and doing the shows, and I think they feel like they have given something back to someone less fortunate then they are. ”

Louisiana Kids also will sing for St. Francis Diner’s Christmas dinner.

The Sub Junior Miss club, with girls from four area high schools, volunteered to help serve Tuesday’s meal.

Candi Landry, Sub Junior Miss sponsor, said the group’s purpose is to serve the community and participate in many service projects during he holidays.

Emily Bourque, Sub Junior Miss member and sophomore at New Iberia Senior High, said she enjoys helping out in the community and said it teaches her to be thankful for all that she has.

Carolyn Pierre, board member, said the diner is always in need of donations.

“We can use anything that can be donated — money, food, which for the first time this year includes wild game, and volunteers,” Pierre said.