Mission Community Services has joined New Heights Community Church and Embers BBQ House to give Christmas dinner to those who might otherwise go hungry.
Photograph by: Submitted photo , Abbotsford Times
Three Mission organizations are coming together this year to make sure no one is left out on Christmas.
Mission Community Services has joined forces with New Heights Community Church and Embers BBQ House to reach out to those in the community who may otherwise go hungry.
They're planning a family-style dinner with all the fixin's on Christmas Day, Dec. 25, from 3 - 5 p.m. at All Saints Church, 33077 Second Ave., Mission.
"We do want to provide a meal, but we really want people to share in the Christmas experience and we really don't want anyone to be lonely this Christmas," said Cory Cassel, community development liaison with MCS. "It's more than just a meal, it's about coming together at Christmas time."
The free event is open to anyone in need who feels alone or left out this holiday season.
The celebration will include a traditional turkey and ham dinner with all the fixings served in a family table style setting with volunteers and guests sharing in the experience of sitting around a table and having a meal together.
The dinner will be prepared by the staff at Embers BBQ House with ingredients coming from donations that have been accepted by New Heights Church and the MCS Food Centre.
A cash donation has also been provided by Pioneer Chrysler to ensure that nothing is missing from the meal and that perhaps a few special touches can be added to make the experience a special one.
New Heights Church and MCS will also have warm clothes, blankets and toiletry items available for anyone who needs them.
There will be about 25 volunteers on hand to help serve the food, and they're planning on feeding 125-150 said Cassel.
This is the first year of the collaborative effort, after the closing of the Union Gospel Mission last year left a big void in the community.
"We're really proud that a faith based, a social services agency and a local business are coming together to put on this event," added Cassel.
All are welcome for this family dinner, with gifts, take-aways and a place to enjoy new friendships and a holiday atmosphere.
- For more information or to donate, contact Cory Cassel at 604-814-3941 or e-mail him at cory.cassel@missioncommunityservices.com.
