Although there was perhaps lower numbers than anticipated for the Ponoka Community Christmas Dinner, held at the Ponoka Legion on Dec. 25, the event was well received.
“We didn’t have the turnout we hoped for,” said Val Schabert, one of the organizers, adding feedback was very positive.
“The atmosphere was very festive. Everyone seemed to be having a good time.”
Altogether, 165 meals were served in total, including dine-in, take out and delivery. There were about 65 in-person diners at the Legion, and 100 meals via delivery.
For the dine-in meal, proof of double COVID-19 vaccination via QR code was required. Only two people who came weren’t able to sit down, but they were still given meals to take home, said Schabert.
Kasun Fernando of Lago Catering did most of the cooking for the dinner, and Tom Lam, owner of The Old Iron Horse Restaurant, coordinated delivery and pickup of meals.
The Town of Ponoka supplied volunteers to deliver the Christmas meals to people’s doors.
The Community Christmas Dinner is possible through donations from the community.
“People were very generous with their donations, both with gifts for door prizes and financial,” said Schabert, noting it was all very much appreciated.