It was a hub of activity at Kelowna’s Gospel Mission Saturday afternoon, as 700 Easter dinners were plated for hungry guests.
It takes just under three weeks and 150 volunteers to prepare for the event, says Ami Catriona with Kelowna’s Gospel Mission.
“It's a big event for our staff and volunteers. Kelowna’s Gospel Mission is preparing 40 turkeys, 16 hams, 100 lbs of mixed vegetables, 500 lbs of potatoes and approximately 50L of gravy.”
Catriona says regular guests of the Gospel Mission will line up starting at noon, where families and seniors gather for lunch later in the day.
“Easter Dinner is a family event for us, we know that a simple meal on any day can be a life changing event for a client in need.”
Local politicians from MLA Norm Letnick to City Councillors Mohini Singh helped to serve and tidy up at the event, along side 50 dedicated volunteers.
Anyone in need of a hot meal was welcome.
A former guest says they are thankful the Gospel Mission is available to assist them in their time of need.
“A bad roommate situation forced me to leave my place mid-month while I was battling pneumonia. The Mission was very good at helping me physically, mentally, and spiritually.," he said.
"During my time at the Mission I had my share of situations that weren’t always good. Despite the outcome, staff members did not judge me. Instead, they offered me encouragement. Over the course of my stay, I have become involved with a variety of duties in volunteering which kept me focused and feeling like a productive person. “