POULSBO — Gateway Fellowship’s third annual Operation Day of Hope Oct. 20 experienced a sharp increase in participants this year: 1,085 individuals.

The day featured a host of free services, including clothing, dental care, haircuts, health screenings, legal advice, social services help, spa services and Christmas/family portraits.

Hot meals were served. Fresh and canned food items were distributed.

All services provided were complimentary.

“The turnout was nothing less that remarkable,” community outreach pastor Dave Fischer said in a press release.

“We are so thankful to be in a position to help our neighbors and friends.  The need is clearly growing in North Kitsap. In 2011, we served 489. This year we were blessed to help more than twice that number.  All I can say is ‘thank you’ to our 400 volunteers and to all the businesses and service agencies that so graciously gave of their time, money and resources.  We are humbled by all the generosity.”

Event chairwoman Ruth Tangen said 178 people received dental care.

“Our 400 volunteers served 1,000 hot meals, helped 345 families with groceries, gave 75 haircuts, helped 498 families get clothing, and provided legal help, family photos, medical advice, manicures and massages to many more,” she said.

Planning for the 2013 Operation Day of Hope is already underway.  Although a specific date has not been selected, the event always takes place in the month of October.

Gateway Fellowship is a vibrant regional church based in Poulsbo.  The Church is passionate about God and serving Him through worship, small groups, ministry teams and education.   Anyone who does not already have a church home is invited to worship on Sunday’s at Gateway.

For additional information on Gateway Fellowship visit www.gatewayfellowship.com.