By Kim Hutchison
Staff Reporter:
How will you be spending the holiday season this year? One option is to attend the Town of Ponoka’s Community Christmas.
The 13th annual get together will be taking place at the Ponoka Kinsmen Centre on Christmas Day.
The free event, made possible by local organization and personal food donations plus the help provided by anyone wishing to volunteer, begins at 1 p.m. with a delicious dinner followed by an afternoon of entertainment.
Aside from a children’s craft table and surprises, there will be various activities and talents volunteers and attendees wish to showcase such as singing a song or reading from a Christmas book. All ideas for the afternoon are welcome.
“George Wheatley and the band have blessed Community Christmas for years. I just wanted to let them know we have been so grateful for them and their talent,” she said. They will not be able to perform this year due to circumstances beyond their control but they are deeply wished all the best.
No registration to attend is required. If you would like to take part, simply show up and enjoy.
“Christmas can often be a lonely time,” said event coordinator Sherri Mitchell. “If you don’t have anyone to spend it with it, or if you’ve lost a loved one, Christmas often amplifies those feelings of loneliness and loss. Community Christmas is meant to alleviate any stress while providing a welcoming place for people to go.”
Volunteers for the event and food donations are still needed so if you are interested in either, contact Sherri at 403-843-3638.
“Everybody gets something different from this event whether they’re volunteering or attending,” said Mitchell. “A community is people who care and show compassion and concern for each other. Community Christmas really displays the heart of Ponoka.”