Medicine Hat organizations continue their annual dinners on Christmas Day for those without family.
Missy Fandrick, executive director of United Way, says the organization has been involved with the Spirit of Christmas Feast dinner for four years – proud to feed up to 300 Hatters.
“The dinner gives everybody a sense of belonging, companionship, friendship and the message that they’re not alone,” said Fandrick.
She says the Holidays can be emotionally difficult for people, and the dinner is a place for them to enjoy music, food and the company of potential friendships – not only for those attending but for volunteers as well.
Fandrick says up to 25 people volunteer at the dinner, and there are always more willing to offer their time. She says volunteers start inquiring in November.
“What a way to meet people and engrain yourself in the community,” said Fandrick.
Not only is donating time appreciated, but the businesses that donate for the food do not go unnoticed, said Fandrick. She said this year, the food donations are running short, but the Medicine Hat Real Estate Board donated $1,000 to the Christmas dinner.
“Nobody is going to be left behind, or go hungry,” said Fandrick.
The dinner starts at 5 p.m. at 503A Allowance Avenue.
The Kiwanis club is also having its annual Christmas Day dinner at 11 a.m. at the Medicine Hat Exhibition and Stampede, with 150 Hatters already registered and another 30 expected to come the day of.
John John, who assists in co-ordinating the dinner with the Kiwanis, says there are recurring volunteers yearly, and families are starting to bring their children to volunteer as well.
“The volunteers say the effect of seeing people happy is irreplaceable – it is the biggest gift for them and their families,” said John.
John says businesses in the city contribute to the dinner with food platters and desserts. A private car service is available to drive folks to and from the dinner, and the Medicine Hat Lodge is preparing turkeys and other side dishes for the feast.
Kiwanis president Ken Murdock says Hatters are eager to spend the Holidays with their neighbours and give them a space to share in good cheer.
“It is a community effort, and all we are doing is co-ordinating it,” said Murdock.
The dinner was once held each year at the Veiner Centre, which donated the space, but after the 2013 flood, the Kiwanis needed to find a new space. That’s when the Medicine Hat Exhibition and Stampede offered up its location. However, the committee is actively looking for a venue for next year’s Christmas dinner – one with a large space, available parking and a kitchen.
