AMHERST – Rich gravy, succulent turkey and creamy mashed potatoes will be available once again this year at the Bridge Workshop courtesy of the Amherst Community Christmas Dinner committee.
“Between the ten (committee members), we are approaching businesses, services club and the town of Amherst again to help,” said committee member Betsy Prager. “Many local businesses have made contributions to help us in the past. This wouldn’t be possible without them or the surrounding areas.”
The dinner is open to everyone. Although there is no charge, they do accept donations.
“This is for people who want to be around others to help them celebrate the season,” said Prager. “We have seniors who wont see their family at Christmas and people who can’t eat a whole turkey by themselves. It’s for anyone who wants to come.”
The committee usually cooks almost a dozen turkeys, weighing around 30 pounds. But, none of the food, Prager said, goes to waste.
“Last year, we probably served 175 meals,” she said. “We gave away from another 75 meals to the fire hall, EHS, police and the hospital staff, whoever we could find who was working that day. What was left after that went into our freezer and one of the couples who worked with us used it to make soup for the café at the Salvation Army.”
Prager said the community, businesses and services clubs have all been very generous when helping them prepare for the upcoming dinner. Thanks to the generosity of everyone who came to the dinner last year, Prager said they were able to raise over $600 to go towards this year’s dinner.
Anyone interested in volunteering for the event must contact Betsy Prager in advance. The committee is also still looking for donations. Anyone interested in making a contribution or becoming a volunteer can contact Prager at 669-0757.
jturner@amherstdaily.com
