“Our hearts are the only thing bigger than our portions.” That’s the message announcing the upcoming free Christmas dinner hosted by Wimpy’s Diner in Huntsville on Tuesday, December 18. They are one of two local restaurants offering a free holiday dinner—the other is the Algonquin Café & Deli—to those in need or those who don’t want to spend the holidays alone.
“We wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for all the support from this amazing community that we live in,” says Chelsea Bendik of Wimpy’s Diner. “We thought, ‘What better way could we give back and say thank you?'” The traditional turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes will be served to everyone coming through their door for their first ever charity dinner.
The hope, says Bendik, is to make this holiday meal an annual event. “This is our first one, but we want to keep doing it so people in our town know they can count on us to offer a free meal at Christmas.”
The event is being held in support of local organizations like The Door, The Table Soup Kitchen and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Muskoka, and is made possible by some generous donations from members of our community. The Legion has also made the use of their ovens available to prepare the food in expectation of a large crowd.
“One thing we need more than volunteers,” says Bendik, “is toys. Our toy drive is lacking a bit so hopefully we’ll be able to gather some more before the dinner.” People are invited to drop off new, unwrapped toys to support the initiative, with the hope being that every child leaves with a small gift.
The inaugural Christmas Charity Dinner at Wimpy’s Diner is being held on Tuesday, December 18 from 4:00-8:00 p.m. Everyone in need (or in want) of a traditional meal and some good company are welcome to attend. Bendik, along with the staff and volunteers at Wimpy’s Diner, are looking forward to seeing more than a few smiling faces.
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- Wimpy’s Diner staff Mitch, Molly, Jake, Chelsea and Lori (Photo: Chelsea Bendik)
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- The Wimpy’s Diner Toy Drive needs your support
And on December 25, the Algonquin Café & Deli will once again offer a free Christmas dinner from 12:00-4:00 p.m.
“It’s not necessarily about feeding the unfortunate or homeless; it’s about bringing people together,” says Shaun Israelstam, who is passionate about the idea of connecting with the community. “I do this because I love what I do. Once everyone is fed, I get to talk to people; find out their stories.”
For the second year in a row, the café is inviting people to join them for a turkey dinner on a day that can be lonely for those in our town whose families may not be nearby or are no longer here. “No one should have to eat alone,” says Israelstam.
Last year, the café saw more than 65 people come through the door, and Israelstam is confident that this year will bring more. The café is asking for people to call ahead and let them know they’re coming, but drop-ins are welcome too. “Plans change, it happens, so come on by,” says Israelstam.
For those who are unable to get themselves to the location, Algonquin Café is offering rides if booked in advance. “Take a cab over and we’ll drive you home,” says Israelstam. Delivery of a meal is also an option for those who are unable to leave their home. Catering services available, too.
Monetary donations are being taken at the café leading up the the event, with the proceeds going to the St. Vincent De Paul Society.
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We’ve always had terrific corporate citizens, and now we have two more stepping forward. I’m so happy to hear about the toy drive at Wimpy’s, however, next year please advertise it in the “coming events” section of The Doppler. You will receive a far greater response, and there is no cost; as The Doppler is another of our conscientious corporate citizens.
Wow – we do live in the best town !!! It’s people like this that make it outstanding.