Dinner needs just a few more donations

With the Fort Frances Volunteer Bureau’s 19th-annual community Christmas dinner now only a week away, organizers have been bowled over with the generosity of local individuals and businesses.
“Things are coming along really well,” Diane Maxey, a community dinner committee member, said Friday. “We could probably just need to get a few more things in. The veggies, that kind of thing.
“People have been very generous. We’re very, very pleased with everything that’s happened so far,” she added. “We’re very happy with all the contributions thus far, and just need that last little bit.”
Maxey noted all of the hams and turkeys that will be needed Christmas Day have been donated. At this point, it’s down to needing cheese, gravy, frozen veggies, pickles, olives, stuffing, desserts, cabbage (for coleslaw), coffee, and tea.
People also are welcome to donate money so organizers can go out and buy the groceries themselves.
“Cash donations would be great, so we can pick any odds and ends that we need,” said Maxey.
She also said anyone who wants to help out by setting up or cleaning up at the dinner, or do any number of other jobs on Christmas Day, can give the Volunteer Bureau a call.
As previously reported, the popular event will be held at the New Beginnings Fellowship (located beside the Lakeview trailer court) this year. It will take place from noon-2 p.m.
Maxey said planning for the dinner is well underway, and volunteers likely will be setting up there starting on Thursday.
Maxey, who is responsible for lining up entertainment for the community event along with June Caul, added Jackie and Gerry Guimond will be performing once again this year.
But the more, the merrier and anyone, particularly young people, who would like to sing a few songs or play music on Christmas Day is encouraged to give Maxey a call at 274-7309.
“It would give Jackie and Gerry a nice break,” remarked Maxey, adding it’s possible New Beginnings Fellowship also may be getting some of its members to sing a little that day.
The entertainment will be ongoing throughout the dinner, and will be taking place in the sanctuary next to the dining area.
But those eating and visiting will be able to hear the music while they dine, and afterwards are encouraged to go into the sanctuary and check out the entertainment up close and personal.
Last year’s dinner drew about 300 people and this Christmas likely will draw at least that many.
The dinner is for everybody—whether they’re people who might not have family to share the holiday with or those who simply want to socialize with fellow citizens on a very special occasion.
Dozens of “Meals on Wheels” also will be delivered to local residents that day.
Those who would like a meal delivered to them on Christmas Day should contact the Volunteer Bureau at least a couple of days beforehand.
The same goes for anyone who may need a ride to the church.
To make food or monetary donations, to volunteer your time, or to arrange for a ride or meal delivery, call the Volunteer Bureau at 274-9555 or drop by the old CN station Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.