MADERA COUNTY, Calif. (KFSN) -- Hundreds of people lined the Merced County Fairgrounds Monday morning for the chance to take home free holiday food ahead of Thanksgiving.

"We just thank God to be receiving the gift we are receiving," Budina Smith said in line.

They braved cold and foggy weather to be there.

"We are freezing out here," Smith said, bundled up.

Volunteers handed out turkeys, cheese and almonds to 500 people.

We're told some people were lined up as early as midnight to 6 am, even though the gates didn't open until 11 am.

Budina Smith was one of the first in line at 6:30 am, ensuring she got a turkey after struggling to get food on the table.

"It's very hard. I work two jobs, and it's still hard. You can barely get your bills paid," Smith explained.

Many in line are ex

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