With the help of an army of volunteers, including local dignitaries, the Salvation Army offered Thanksgiving Dinner to 100 of the community’s less fortunate, on Tuesday, Oct. 5.
The meal, which was served at St. George’s United as part of the regular Sonshine Lunch Club, was a full turkey dinner with all the trimmings. The food was supplied by Ricky’s All Day Grill.
Salvation Army pastor Kevin Elsasser was confident there would be enough meals for everyone who wanted one.
“We usually have about 50-60 (regular clients at the Sonshine Lunch Club) so we have doubled it just in case,” said Elsasser. “It’s been on the radio and in the newspaper, so we are hopeful there will be enough. Should anything be left over, it will go to the shelter and other places in town.”
“We wanted to bring Thanksgiving cheer. This is the way we give hope today, and every day, in the Comox Valley.”
Political leaders from all three municipalities were on hand to help serve the dinner.
“It’s very important that we make a connection,” said Cumberland Mayor Leslie Baird. “I think this is a very positive thing that St. George’s Church and the Salvation Army do for the people that are homeless and in need.”
Comox Mayor Russ Arnott concurred.
“I think this is a great opportunity to help the community have a Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving belongs to everyone, and this is a great opportunity to help those in need.”
Courtenay acting mayor Will Cole-Hamilton
said he was honoured to have the opportunity.
“It’s an honour to be able to do something to support the less fortunate people in our community. If Thanksgiving is about anything, I think it’s about sharing something with those who could use a hand.”
terry.farrell@comoxvalleyrecord.com
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