ATHABASCA – Roughly 1,150 people took in the 27th-annual Athabasca Community Christmas Dinner held Dec. 12 at the Athabasca Regional Multiplex.
Sponsored by the Athabasca Ministerial Association and organized by the Community Christmas Dinner Committee, the annual event promotes community spirit by bringing together people of all ages and backgrounds.
The traditional Christmas dinner is supported by local businesses, churches, organizations, municipalities, musicians, students and youth groups like 4-H.
“It is a fun and joyous opportunity for the volunteers,” said event co-ordinator Cheryl Balay. “It is truly our pleasure to host this traditional event because it has become a special time for so many people.”
Attendees were treated to a meal that included turkey, ham, mashed potatoes and all the fixings. Of those, 340 were take-out, a part of the event that allows people who are unable to stay take food back to work, or enjoy it at home.
Music was provided by Whispering Hills Country Music Association and Sweet Harmonies consisting of members Suzanne Bury, Doris Shalapay, Roxanne Gill and Sharon Senyk. Ida Edwards rounded out the entertainment.
Over 90 loaves of bread were used to make the stuffing while 200 kilograms (441 pounds) of turkey, 50 kilograms (110 pounds) of ham and 227 kilograms (500 pounds) of potatoes, plus gallons of gravy and cranberry sauce were served. For dessert there was an ice cream bar set up for sundaes and cones.
Donations were collected for the Good Samaritan Mission Food Bank and Santas Anonymous.
“We’re definitely grateful to everyone who helps out,” Balay stated. “We couldn’t do it without them.”
