Thousands Served at Salvation Army Christmas Dinners

With one in eight Canadian families struggling to put food on their table and an estimated 30,000 people experience homelessness on any given night, The Salvation Army’s Christmas dinners provided a holiday meal for those who wouldn’t otherwise have one.

“It’s a festive atmosphere,” says Captain George Kogan, from The Salvation Army in Langford, B.C. “We feed 250 people at the event, which isn’t just for those experiencing financial hardship. Everybody is welcome. The dinner also caters to people who may be struggling emotionally and just want some companionship and social interaction.”

In Edmonton, The Salvation Army’s Christmas dinner served 1,500 people. In Winnipeg, more than 1,000 people enjoyed a hot, traditional Christmas dinner. In Halifax, more than 350 community members in need enjoyed a Christmas dinner with all the trimmings.

John, a volunteer, says serving a Christmas meal is about giving back to the community. “It helps me realize the need that exists and humbles me to give back to others.”