DALLAS – There's no doubt, everything tastes better after a win. But not even a loss could have taken away the significance of the Cowboys serving their annual early Thanksgiving meal across the DFW metroplex.

Charlotte Jones joined the veteran players and their significant others, of the Dallas Cowboys Women's Association, in serving a hot meal in Dallas. The Dallas Cowboys Rookie Club and rookie Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders served their meals to Salvation Army clients in Fort Worth. Together, approximately 500 less fortunate men and women came together today for laughter, smiles, and stories with Ezekiel Elliott, Jason Witten and their favorite Dallas Cowboys players.

"So many challenges in life. And to be able to put a smile on their face, is humbling for me," Witten said.

Witten, joined by his wife Michelle and two daughters, jumped right back in the mix after missing last year when he was with ESPN. This early Thanksgiving meal was something he missed during his time away from the Cowboys.

"It's always a time when you smile driving down, looking forward to it. So many great memories over the years, allowing my kids to be a part of it. Really, I just think, seeing what the Cowboys are doing giving back to the community, it's really a special moment," Witten said.

For Witten, this is his 16th season – and the Cowboys have been heading up this tradition for just as many years. But for rookie Tony Pollard, it's his first time to be a part of this, and he's already enamored with being involved in the community.

"Seeing the look on these people's faces, you know, just them not expecting you to take time out of your day to give back. How it brings so much joy to them," Pollard said with a smile. "It almost makes you feel like a superstar."

Obviously, the Cowboys are always busy on Thanksgiving, but this tradition is one that resonates throughout Dallas/Fort Worth for 364 days until the next Thanksgiving.

"It's amazing, we've all been through a lot," attendee Lacy Vaughn said. "It's really neat that they take the time to come serve us a Thanksgiving lunch."

The Cowboys are hosting a free watch party at The Star in Frisco on Nov. 24 as the Cowboys take on the Patriots. The festive atmosphere will include live performances, alumni appearances and more!