Plans are in place for a holiday feast ready to be served Dec. 25.
Lee Grim, one of the organizers of the Christmas Day dinner, is busy preparing for the 10th annual event.
“It’ll be as usual,” he said of the dinner that served more than 700 people last year. “We’re looking forward to it because it’s the 10th anniversary.”
As in years past, the event will be held at the Roadhouse Nightclub on Highway 11 east and will run from 2-6 p.m. Christmas Day. Although the nightclub isn’t open for business, Grim said its owner will make sure it’ll offer a festive atmosphere.
“Nancy Brown is graciously going to make sure it’s decorated and ready to go,” he said. “Everything will be the same as we’ve done in the past.”
The dinner, which is free, is for everyone who eats, Grim said. It’s intended to bring friends, neighbors and community members together for a meal on Christmas.
“One of the main reasons we started this is to bring together people and develop community spirit,” he said. “It’s about being with others on Christmas to show the spirit of love and concern for others.”
While Grim was looking forward to all the faces he’ll see at the dinner, he knows there are some who are unable to attend. For people who cannot get to the Roadhouse, but would like a meal, to-go orders will be accepted starting at 11 a.m. Dec. 25 by calling 286-5550.
“And, if you can’t get there but want to come, give us a call, we’ll come pick you up,” Grim said.
The dozens of volunteers who pull together to serve, do dishes, take orders and other duties are the force behind the dinner’s continued success, Grim said.
“People seem to think it’s a good thing and they’re willing to come help,” he said. “They’re willing to make it happen.”
While the meal is free, donations to the Falls Hunger Coalition will be accepted. Just the other day, Grim said he ran into a friend who inquired about the dinner. When Grim told him it was scheduled as usual, the friend reached in his wallet and gave Grim money for the food shelf.
“It’s that kind of stuff that’s encouraging,” he said.
Volunteers are still needed and can contact Grim at clgrim57@midco.net.
“We hope the community comes out and has a wonderful dinner and spreads some joy,” he said. “Share the news with your neighbors. If you know somebody, bring them along.”
Originally Published: December 1, 2015 at 2:45 PM CST