MINTO – The eighth annual Andersons’ Community Christmas Dinner was “a huge success,” organizers report.
“We fed about 400 people,” with numbers split evenly between dine in and takeout, deputy Mayor Jean Anderson told Minto council members on Jan. 9.
Anderson, who organizes the event with her husband Dave Anderson, thanked all those who volunteered to help with the Dec. 25 event, which provides a no-charge opportunity to share a meal with others on Christmas day.
“There were 40 [volunteers] there,” said Anderson, noting news of the event being the recipient of one of the inaugural Wishbone Awards attracted a lot of attention and additional volunteers this year.
Launched by Think Turkey in response to rising food insecurity in Canada, the Wishbone Awards recognize and support “community heroes who help put holiday meals on the table for those in need.”
“So the veggies were done in no time. It was good and accomplished its purpose … and we have some significant funds that we will donate back to the food banks,” she said, adding thanks to regular supporters and “all the people who donate things to us and bake pies and bring them in.”
“It’s heartwarming just to see the number of people that are there and the number of people that are helping,” observed Mayor Dave Turton.
“This town and this area owe a great amount of gratitude to the Anderson family,” the mayor added.
“It’s our pleasure,” Anderson replied.
