Christmas dinner plans underway

A long-standing tradition will continue on Dec. 25 as the Fort Frances Volunteer Bureau has begun planning for its 20th-annual community Christmas dinner.
Community dinner committee co-ordinator Josie Patrick said yesterday she’s sent out letters to local businesses and services clubs asking them to again support the popular event.
“All donations, whether they’re monetary, food, or just time, are more than welcome,” Patrick noted.
Wanted food items include turkeys, hams, buns, butter, cheese, gravy, frozen veggies, pickles, stuffing, desserts, cabbage rolls, perogies, coffee, and tea.
With cash donations, organizers can go out and buy the groceries themselves.
The Volunteer Bureau also has a raffle going on right now, with proceeds earmarked for the community Christmas dinner. Tickets, which cost $2 each or three for $5, are available at Betty’s, Pharmasave, and Causeway Insurance.
The raffle prizes, which include a quilt donated by Winnie Rousseau, a gift basket with hand-painted stemware and other items, and a gift basket full of scrapbooking supplies, are on display at Causeway Insurance.
The draw will be made Dec. 20.
As well, the community dinner committee needs volunteers for jobs ranging from decorating and clean-up to cooking, serving food, and delivering “Meals on Wheels.”
“Anyone that wants to donate their time is welcome. All they have to do is call us,” said Patrick. “I had someone call me today and say, ‘I’m going to serve the ice cream.’
“That’s great. That’s a nice feeling.
“If they want to donate some time, whether it’s on that day, prior to, or following the dinner, all they have to do is give us a quick call at 274-9555, and we’ll be more than happy to accommodate them,” she added.
Patrick also is looking into arranging music for the event, as well as a possible visit from the jolly old elf himself.
After being held at the New Beginnings Fellowship last Christmas, Patrick said the community dinner has been moved back to Knox United Church for this year.
It will start at noon and run until about 2 p.m.
Patrick noted the Knox United location is central and a little easier for people to get to. “They were kind enough to give it back to us and let us use it again this year,” she said.
Patrick said she expects the community dinner to be popular once again this Christmas.
“There’s so many people that come. They don’t want to be alone at Christmastime,” she stressed. “They look at the community Christmas dinner and the other people that go there as an extended family.
“It’s awesome. No one should have to be alone on Christmas Day.
“I’m excited about it. It gives you a great feeling,” enthused Patrick. “In fact, that’s where my Christmas dinner is going to be this year.
“This is what Christmas really should be all about. It’s not about gifts. It’s about the sharing of time and being together. To me, that’s what this is all about.”
Last year’s dinner drew about 250 people. This included 42 “Meals on Wheels,” which volunteers delivered to local shut-ins.
Those who would like a meal delivered to them on Christmas Day should contact the Volunteer Bureau at least a couple of days beforehand.
As well, a ride service will be offered for those who may need a lift to the church on Christmas Day.
To make a food or monetary donation, or to volunteer your time, call Patrick or event co-chair Debbie Bazylewski at 274-9555 or drop by the old CN station Monday through Friday between 9 a.m.-3 p.m.