With Christmas less than five weeks away, the Burnaby Rotary Club is once again inviting local families to its annual Christmas dinner.
The free event, now in its 20th year, serves up a traditional feast with all the fixings, including turkey, mashed potatoes, vegetables, stuffing and gravy. There’s even a mac and cheese option for vegetarians.
Most families are invited or referred through Burnaby Family Life, Burnaby Neighbourhood House and some community schools. Rotary’s Pamela Gardner told the NOW the organization has set aside 75 spots this year for self-referrals and suggestions from the general public.
“If there’s people who aren’t going to have their own Christmas and want to come and have it with other people, it’s a great opportunity. If there’s people, that coming to this event, will brighten their Christmas, that’s our goal,” she said. “I don’t want to (turn) anybody away.”
Santa will also be making an appearance and handing out presents to all kids 12 and under.
“Some of the kids don’t open their gift because it’s the only gift they’re going to get under their Christmas tree,” said Gardner.
Dinner costs are covered by the rotary club and Dr. Michael Boyd, a local ophthalmologist. The meal will be prepared and served by Rotary volunteers. It all starts at 5 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 19 and takes place at the Portuguese seniors’ centre, at 5455 Imperial St.
The deadline to register is Monday, Dec. 12. To nominate a family or senior, email Gardner at [email protected]. Santa’s elves will need the first name, age and gender of children 12 and under so they can prepare enough toys.
