Several groups are coming together to continue the long-standing tradition of the Ponoka Community Christmas Dinner and this year it will be a multi-faceted event to accommodate COVID-19 restrictions and different needs.
The event is being put on by a group of volunteers, along with Tom Lam from the Old Iron Horse restaurant and a cook from the Legion who will be preparing the food and the Town of Ponoka, which is providing volunteers for deliveries.
The dinner will be held on Christmas Day, Dec. 25. The doors will open at 10 a.m. and the meal will be served at 12 p.m.
For those attending the event, proof of COVID-19 vaccination with a QR code and masks are required.
If you need a ride, the handi-van will be available. Call 403-783-9752.
If you aren’t able to come in person or prefer to dine at home, the Old Iron Horse restaurant will be preparing up to 150 meals, for pick up or delivery. Order by Wednesday, Dec. 22. Call 403-4766.
Val Schabert, one of the organizers, said they don’t know how many people are coming, how much money they have, or how many volunteers they will have, but it “all seems to come together.
“I look forward to it every year,” she said.
Donations and volunteers are “gratefully accepted.” If you’re interested in helping out. For more information, call Schabert at 403-783-8799.
Small gift donations, such as boxes of chocolates, mittens or scarves, etcetera, can be dropped off at Servus Credit Union or by contacting Schabert.