The Fraser Valley鈥檚 welcomed the community for its annual Christmas dinner last week, a long-standing celebration heralding the start of a whole season of festivities.
鈥淲e were able to serve about 200 people, who for just $10 were able to enjoy a fantastic holiday dinner, including turkey from our local JD Farms and all the trimmings,鈥� says the Co-op鈥檚 Sean Weatherly. 鈥淐ommunity is one of our core values and there鈥檚 no greater time to share that community spirit than Christmas.鈥�
With carols from a local choir ringing through the air, Co-op team members donned their Santa hats and volunteered their time to serve customers and neighbours, including many seniors and singles who might not have a holiday meal otherwise. 鈥淚t鈥檚 an evening we look forward to every year 鈥� it鈥檚 just so much fun as everyone comes together.鈥�
The community dinner was just the start of a whole season of holiday fun to come:
- With the holiday spirit shining bright at Otter Co-op鈥檚 locations, next up are several local parades, where they鈥檒l be joining the fun in their decorated vehicle. Following last Saturday鈥檚 Chilliwack parade, watch for the team handing out Christmas treats during the and the !
- On Dec. 15, Santa will take time out from his busy schedule to meet local children at the Co-op retail centre from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Bring your camera to commemorate the moment with a free photo! 鈥淭he season is so busy that many families find it difficult to get to the mall and wait in line for a photo, so this is just another way we can help,鈥� Weatherly says.
- Throughout the season, the Co-op team is also collecting cash donations at each of its locations for local food banks.
- Kids have their own way to celebrate with Otter Co-op: Cooper鈥檚 Christmas Giveaway! Until Dec. 19, kids visiting the store will receive an entry form for the chance to win AWESOME prizes, including an Xbox and Power Wheels.
Founded in 1922 by a group of Fraser Valley farmers, today the 96-year-old boasts more than 32,000 active members who share in the profits, based on how much they spend on fuel, groceries, clothing, housewares, farm supplies and more. A $10 lifetime membership fee is all it takes to start earning, with profits shared yearly 鈥� more than $5.9 million this year!
, with its full grocery store, liquor store, fashion centre, pharmacy and home and hardware store. There鈥檚 a , and from Ladner to West Kelowna. Learn more, including everything you need to know about membership, at
