Officials at NyE Communities Coalition’s Holiday Task Force said there’s no reason for anyone in the community to go hungry on Christmas Day on Sunday.
The agency is hosting its annual free Community Christmas Dinner at their 1020 E. Wilson Road location from noon to 3 p.m.
Organizer Linda Wright said the dinner is open to anyone who wishes to take part.
“We’re inviting the community to come out and socialize and enjoy a Christmas dinner with our friends in the community,” she said. “It’s also a good way to make new friends.”
Additionally, Wright said those who are homebound can also enjoy the dinner, as the coalition also provides free deliveries to those in the community.
“If you or someone you know would enjoy a Christmas dinner delivered to your door, please call Linda DeMeo at 775-209-4683,” she said. “The deadline for Christmas Day dinner deliveries is noon on Christmas Day. There is a limit of four meals per address.”
Covering all bases for the community dinner, Wright also noted arrangements have been made for those who would like to attend the coalition dinner, but have no transportation.
“All they have to do is call for a ride up until Christmas Eve so we can get them scheduled and we will pick them up,” she said. “For free senior and handicapped transportation, call 775 727-5008, extension 10. We also have the Vet Trans to bring people in if they need a ride. They can call 775 572-8387.”
Most importantly, Wright acknowledged the work of individuals in the community who volunteer their time to help host the dinner each year.
“Without them, we just wouldn’t be able to put it on,” she said. “To help make this possible we need volunteers to direct traffic in the parking lot, we also need servers and people to refill drinks. We also have positions open at the dessert table as well as home delivery drivers.”
Donations, Wright noted, also keep the program going.
“We are only able to do this primarily through donations from the community and other organizations in town,” she said. “We can always use monetary donations, including a grocery store gift card and checks. Please make the checks payable to NyE Communities Coalition and note holiday meals on the memo line. If someone has questions they can call the coalition at 775-727-9970.”
Contact reporter Selwyn Harris at sharris@pvtimes.com