'Tis the season to start thinking about holiday meals, and this year, the Salvation Army in Great Falls is expecting more people to turn out for their Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners.

They've seen a 27% increase in requests for social service assistance since the fall of 2008; most of the requests are for food and help with rent.

Last year, the Salvation Army saw a jump in those seeking the holiday meals, and this year upwards of 700 are expected just for Christmas and the Angel Tree project alone.

Major Joe Huttenlocker, Salvation Army spokesman in Great Falls, said, "We're ready for it, we're gearing up for it and we're counting on the community to help and be in support of it, both in monetary giving and in helping fill these specific requests for Angel Tree."

Applications are now being accepted at the Salvation Army Family Service Center located at 527 9th Avenue South, and representatives ask that you bring your Social Security card and proof of income.

For more information, caall 453-0391.