Joe not only brought delicious food to feed the homeless, he came with a delightful and dedicated staff to serve a blessed and bountiful meal. Everyone who was at the shelter on that memorable day will never forget his kindness and generosity.
Lt. Col. Tom Jones, Clearwater Salvation Army
"I think it really means a lot to the folks who come here. Really gives them a sense that they are appreciated, that they are cared for. That people do think about them when sometimes they do feel like they are forgotten, to have someone like Joe, with Joe's background, and obviously, celebrity status. To come and really care about them on a deeper level really means a lot to them."
Christine Smith, Bradenton Salvation Army's director of community relations and development
"To be honest with you I got a lot of respect for Joe and the things he do. I think he got a love for people, he love people. He love helping people and the things he do inspire me to help others."
Michael Horsley, recipient, St. Petersburg Salvation Army
"This means a lot because we’re going to integrate a lot of cultures, Dominicans, Puerto Ricans, Italian, you name it, in Hazleton. I’m very happy about this project."
Olga Lantigua, Salvation Army volunteer, Hazleton.
"He's (Joe Maddon) unbelievable. He's the type of guy, I met him and it was like I knew
him all my life."
Bill Beecher, Manatee Salvation Army
"The Thanksmas dinner was a huge help and lots of fun. Joe Maddon personally talked with as many diners as possible. I watched him visit with a two-year-old boy by playing and gave
him a toy baseball - it was precious!"
Kris Volpone, Volunteer Specialist, Salvation Army, Lee County
"These children will never forget this. Frankly, neither will I. It's refreshing to know that the Christmas spirit is still alive and well."
Captain Tim Gilliam, Area Commander, St. Petersburg Salvation Army
"Over 300 residents and guests received a wonderful meal and gifts from Joe Maddon and his staff as part of the Thanksmas program that Joe provides. I truly enjoyed watching Joe interact with the dinner guests, and talk sports with guys that normally only get to see him
on television. We enjoyed this blessing."
Major Thomas Louden, Corps Officer, Salvation Army, Lee County
"It's heartwarming to know he understands what's going on. He understands that the people living here are hard-working people who just want to improve their lives."
Moria Hinson, Director of Development, Tampa Salvation Army