CLIFFORD – Minto residents Dave and Jean Anderson will host their fourth annual community Christmas dinner here on Dec. 25.
The Andersons, who celebrate Christmas with their families on days other than Dec. 25, hosted the dinner for the first time in 2016, having no idea what to expect.
The first Andersons’ Community Christmas drew between 140 and 150 people, including volunteer helpers, who enjoyed a meal at the Harriston-Minto Community Centre, while another 25 meals were delivered to shut-ins or people working on Christmas Day.
The 2017 event, also held in Harriston, attracted 225 to the communal dinner, with 50 takeout meals served to community members who couldn’t attend. The third provided a holiday meal and social time for about 240 diners at the community centre in Palmerston.
The 2019 dinner will be held at the Clifford Community Centre at 1pm on Christmas Day and is open to everyone who would like to attend.
“Come and join for a time of fellowship,” the Andersons urge.
There is no charge to attend the event, which features a traditional Christmas meal with all the trimmings. The event is not a fundraiser. However numerous cash donations were received, both before and at previous events, with the surplus split between local food banks.
While meal delivery is also available for those who can’t attend, the Andersons encourage everyone interested to join them at the event. Rides are available for those who need transportation.
To reserve a spot for the dinner, request a ride or a delivered meal, donate or volunteer, contact Jean at 519-505-5914 or jeanurse1@gmail.com.
