More donations sought for Christmas dinner

Now just a week away, the Fort Frances Volunteer Bureau’s annual community Christmas dinner is shaping up well, organizers said.
But some more donations are needed if they are to provide for the more than 200 people they’re expecting Dec. 25 at Knox United Church.
“We’re still short on hams. We could use about four more,” said Karen Haney, assistant co-ordinator for the Volunteer Bureau.
“The turkeys have come in real well. We’ll be preparing between 12 and 15, but one more wouldn’t hurt,” she added. “We could use another bag of flour, and dainties are always good.”^The dinner—which will run from noon-2 p.m.—is a group effort made possible with donations of cash and food.
But equally important, said Haney, is the community volunteers.
And while there’s been many offering aid of all sorts, a little more help still is needed.
“Everyone’s welcome to help out. Just give us a call,” she stressed.
The Volunteer Bureau’s number is 274-9555. If no one answers, leave a message.
Every year, dozens of volunteers are needed to cook the food, serve food and punch, deliver “Meals on Wheels,” and help clean up afterwards.
Haney noted she, executive director Vanessa Hebert, and some other volunteers will be going to the church a couple of days before the actual dinner to set up and decorate, and people are welcome to help out in that regard, too.
The event also seems to be getting increasingly popular year after year, seeing a mix of people who might not have family to share the holiday with as well as those who simply want to socialize with fellow citizens on a very special occasion.
Last year’s community Christmas dinner, for instance, drew about 220 people—20 more than the year before.
As always, the free dinner is open to anyone who wants to attend, said Haney.
Jackie and Gerry Guimond will provide the entertainment again this year.
Anyone who would like a Christmas dinner, but can leave their homes, can order a “Meal on Wheels” by calling 274-9555. But Haney stressed these orders must be placed prior to Wednesday, Dec. 24.
Haney said those who wish to attend but don’t have a vehicle, or cannot afford a cab, either can call the Volunteer Bureau and leave a message (274-9555) or call North Air Services’ “Dial-a-Ride” program (274-9741).
When calling “Dial-a-Ride,” be sure to tell the dispatcher you are going to Knox United Church for the Christmas dinner so they can bill the Volunteer Bureau.