91原创鈥檚 St. Joseph鈥檚 Church is returning with its annual community dinner for the first-time post-COVID.

On Christmas Day, the church at 20676 Fraser Hwy. is hosting its 28th annual community dinner for anyone who needs a warm and friendly place to enjoy a full meal.

The event is particularly aimed at feeding seniors who might be alone, people who are homeless, and people struggling financially, shared Deacon Dan Ritchie.

The free meal will include a full turkey dinner, coffee, tea and dessert.

In addition, the church has arranged entertainment and carol-singing inside the decorated hall. Seniors and those with mobility issues can request a free ride by calling the parish office before Dec. 21.

The dinner starts at 5 p.m., and doors open half an hour before.

Ritchie is once again expecting to welcome about 250 visitors for the community dinner this year.

He said the past two years were 鈥渉arsh鈥� on the community due to the COVID lockdown, but it is 鈥済ratifying鈥� to return.

Though COVID-related restrictions will not be in place, the church will still take 鈥渘ecessary precautions,鈥� and serve the food in three sittings to avoid overcrowding in the hall. About 100 volunteers will help the church prepare the dinner, provide rides, and serve the guests.

Iris Ramsdale, a longtime volunteer, said she is excited about the annual event and looking forward to serving the community.

鈥淕od has been so generous to me, so loving鈥� bestowing his blessings on all of us. I just want to return that love to the community of 91原创 by serving the lonely, homeless and seniors who need a place to be on Christmas Day,鈥� said Ramsdale.

Ritchie thanked volunteers for the church organizing the dinner.

鈥淚t has long been a labour of love for our parishioners who turn up every year to volunteer and give back to the community,鈥� he said.

The church is accepting donations ahead of the Christmas dinner. Those looking to support can contribute gift cards to local grocers so that organizers can purchase required food items. For more information, people can call the parish office at 604-534-3303.

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