More than 200 people enjoyed Christmas dinner at the Salvation Army Dec. 22 thanks to financial help from City Furniture in Quesnel.
As a member of the community, Jack Pannu, City Furniture owner, says it’s important to give back to the community.
“It makes us feel good to give back in many ways through Canadian Cancer Society, the local soccer association, Quesnel Millionaires and now with feeding people in the community,” he said.
The Salvation Army offers an annual Christmas dinner, open to the public, but Salvation Army Captain Deb Vanderheyden said its the first time since they’ve been here, that a business has stepped up to cover the cost of the dinner.
“It meant this year we were able to buy gifts for everyone who came to the meal, it
left us money for extras,” she said.
And more than 200 people attended the event including families, friends and individuals.
Pannu said the Salvation Army supplied a list of what they needed to feed the expected crowd and City Furniture purchased the food.
Vanderheyden said the day before the dinner, Maple Park Alliance youth group members came and prepped veggies.
“Usually we’re peeling potatoes for at least two days,” she said.
“Then on the day of the
dinner Community Living clients came to the Warrior Song Cafe and cooked and served the dinner.”
Pannu said they offered dishwashers to help with the clean up but that was already covered.
“We hope to sponsor the dinner again,” he said.
Vanderheyden said the Salvation Army prepares a similar meal at Easter and Thanksgiving.