Annual Hanna Community Christmas Dinner
By Gwen Snell
Freelance Journalist
Turkey dinner with all the trimmings will be served from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on December 25th at the Hanna Community Centre. Local musicians share their talents, while those in attendance can socialize and enjoy the festive atmosphere. There is no cost to attend, but donations at the door will be accepted on behalf of Kiddies Korner Playschool. All are welcome to attend, but are asked to RSVP directly to Karin Miller at 403-854-1846 to allow for preparations.
Over the years, those in attendance may have changed; volunteers can come and go, but one constant has remained – Karin Miller. Revealing that she herself found Christmas often a difficult time, she believes that the event helps people through what could be a difficult time. “It’s an opportunity to meet people. It gives a purpose to gather for those who cannot be with loved ones, or when their loved ones are far away.”
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An event of this size starts early, according to Chef Miller. Local producers grow carrots and potatoes to donate for the dinner; one local family is committed to providing all the centrepieces on the tables; residents at the local Hanna Manor assist with peeling carrots the day prior, and of course, there is a preparation crew on site the day prior. Lastly, there is another great crew of volunteers for the day.
Donations are essential for the event, and the support is always overwhelming. Westmet (formally the Sheerness Mine) has donated three turkeys, while Canada Bread has donated all the bread for the stuffing. Cash donations allow Chef Miller to purchase dinner supplies – which she purchases locally. When asked about donations, she responded, “We only gather what we need. Any cash over and above, if there is any, goes back into the community.
Hanna Community Christmas Dinner is a labour of love for Chef Karin Miller and her army of volunteers. Surpassing her self-imposed number of 10 years, Miller is currently rolling out her 18th Community Christmas Dinner. Despite the large undertaking, her sights are already focused towards two seasons away, with a 20th celebration.
Anyone wishing to volunteer or donate can contact Karin Miller directly.