Many work to get warm meals to those in need this Thanksgiving

There is a mission underway to make sure a rising number of people in need this holiday season don’t go without a warm meal.

Union Gospel Mission started giving out meals Monday in St. Paul and is helping out around 20,000 people.

In Brooklyn Park, Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan visited Second Harvest Heartland to highlight the state’s efforts to combat hunger year-round and ahead of the holiday season. Flanagan also announced a new state website.

"Basically a one-stop shop for folks who need some support and some assistance," Flanagan said. "There’s no shame for asking for help. It’s what we do. We take care of each other here in Minnesota."

Union Gospel Mission plans to give out 4,000 turkeys with all the traditional Thanksgiving trimmings.