Over 400 people enjoyed a free warm meal in Williams Lake, kicking off the season of giving for many who otherwise may not get a holiday dinner.
The Cariboo Chilcotin Child Development Centre (CDC) hosted its 27th annual Yuletide Dinner on Dec. 4 at Sacred Heart Catholic School hall, made possible by community donations.
“This is a true community driven event,” said Vanessa Riplinger, executive director of the CDC. She’s been to almost every single CDC Yuletide Dinner since the beginning.
“We have an amazing team, our staff love this time of year, and they go all out,” she said.
A team of volunteers from the Society of St. Vincent de Paul helped with preparing the food before the dinner and serving the day of. The kitchen team worked under the direction of chef Dave Olynick and Richard Kohlen from the Laughing Loon, alongside some of restaurant staff.
Volunteers from the Williams Lake Mustangs, Scotia Bank, Seniors Village, First Nations Health Authority, Chamber of Commerce, Cariboo GM, Gibraltar Mine, Girl Guides, acting mayor Joan Flaspohler and a few other individuals helped with serving food, clearing tables, washing dishes and clean-up.
The community’s contributions to the dinner, whether by donating their time or money, made it so everyone had the opportunity to enjoy a Christmas dinner this year. Turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing and vegetables, along with Nanaimo bars, other baking and jello, were all part of the festive meal which warmed the hearts of many.
The CDC is now preparing for its next holiday event, the Dec. 11 Christmas Wish Breakfast at Boston Pizza. The breakfast runs from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m., welcoming members of the community to attend with a monetary donation or an unwrapped gift.
The donations will be distributed to families in need by local community services, ensuring every child has a gift under the tree this year.
