An event aimed at serving some holiday cheer to those less fortunate exceeded expectations.
“It went better then we could have imagined,” said Kari Sargeant, who organized a dinner at the Upper Room Mission Dec. 28.
A team of about 25 community members showed up for the post-Christmas celebration, where they slaved in the kitchen cooking 11 turkeys, home-made stuffing, carrots, salad, massive amounts of mashed potatoes, gravy and home-made chili. It was all followed by every baked good imaginable.
“We served 105 people plus had a few take out to-go plates,” said Sargeant, adding that Melina Moore and a friend also came out to sing carols while the meals were being enjoyed. “There were tons of leftovers to eat for days.”
In addition to the hearty meal, everyone left with a grocery bag full of at least $60 in groceries as well as personalized toiletry bags.
“On top of that we handed out brand- new toys to kids and new and used clothes for both adults and children,” said Sargeant. “We also donated tons of goods to keep the mission going for awhile, over $2,000 in canned goods, pastas, etc.”
Along with the time and heart put in by all the volunteers, the evening was made a success through the generosity of community donations.
“In total the dinner, bags and donations came to an estimated $10,000. It was amazing to see this community come together so quickly and without question,” said Sargeant, who also had a lot of fun putting it all together with her children, friends and even complete strangers. “It was very touching to my friends and myself.”
But the biggest reward came in the smiles of those being served.
“People getting served were so polite and thankful. They really seemed to enjoy the evening.”
With such success, Sargeant is looking forward to doing it all again in the future.
“We can’t wait to do it again.”
