Vikings players team up to assist people in need

Team members will serve dessert and distribute winter coats at the Harbor Lights Shelter in downtown Minneapolis.

Last update: November 25, 2008 - 7:29 PM

A handful of Minnesota Vikings will spend part of Thanksgiving Day helping the Salvation Army feed and clothe those in need.

On Thursday afternoon, quarterback Gus Frerotte, offensive tackle Bryant McKinnie and defensive tackle Fred Evans will serve dessert and distribute winter coats at the Harbor Lights Shelter in downtown Minneapolis.

Frerotte will be accompanied by his family, while McKinnie and Evans will be joined by their mothers.

The holiday festivities at Harbor Light starts at 11 a.m. with a worship service, followed by a Thanksgiving meal for up to 1,000 people. Then, starting at 1 p.m., POPP Communications will provide free long-distance calls to anywhere in the world.

Also, winter clothing and accessories will be distributed. The coats were gathered during the Salvation Army's October "Coats for Kids" drive and will be given out by Vikings players.

In other Salvation Army Thanksgiving events:

• At the Salvation Army Rehabilitation Center in Minneapolis, a private Thanksgiving meal for the 130 men in the rehab program will be highlighted by a visit from Vikings defensive end Ray Edwards, who is bringing 25 pies for the feast. Also, Edwards will give two men two tickets each for Sunday's home game against the Chicago Bears. The men in the program will also be offered free phone calls anywhere in the world, courtesy of POPP Communications.

• A free Thanksgiving feast will be served at St. Paul Citadel, 401 W. 7th St., St. Paul. Up to 500 people are expected.

PAUL WALSH

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