Thanksgiving at Soupateria

Photo: Deborah Pfeiffer

Penticton's Soupateria is readying to serve turkey with all the trimmings to more than 100 people on Monday.

The special sit down dinner will take place at lunch time at the soup kitchen on Orchard Avenue.

"It's for those in need, and we try to make it as warm and welcoming as possible," said Lauraine Bailie, past president of the Soupateria.

The meal of turkey, ham, as well as dessert, is usually served to about 150 people. 

Bailie says the number of people served grows a little each year due to the economic times.

"They are living on assistance, $700 to $800 a month, and by the time they pay for shelter, there isn't much left over," she said.

The meal is happening this year thanks to the efforts of cook Chris Grauer, who has been cooking and planning for weeks, and Dawn Taman, who is organizing the dining area, said Bailie.

Several volunteers are also on hand on the day, to make the experience special.

A Penticton single mother, who has seen hard times, but now has a roof over her head, said it's nice the dinner is offered on the holiday.

"It's depressing to be home by yourself on Thanksgiving," she said. "So coming down here, they find a little family they can spend the holiday with."

The special sit down Thanksgiving dinner is from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Monday at the Soupateria, 150 Orchard Ave.