Bagged lunch volunteer project

Happy New Year from Lakeview United Church!

Since September, 160 seniors associated with seven organizations city-wide have each received a bagged lunch made here at Lakeview. Following COVID-19 safety guidelines, volunteers have been meeting at the church to prepare and deliver the meals. Each lunch consists of a sandwich, drink box, fresh vegetables or salad, fruit or pudding, and a dessert. In four months we have made and delivered over 2500 sandwiches, 3500 dessert items, and more carrot and celery sticks than you could count!

In the weeks approaching Christmas, the volunteers determined that each of our 160 seniors should also receive a box of home-made Christmas baking. Through the generosity of this congregation, 2100 home-made cookies and squares were contributed. Christmas week lunches included freshly roasted and sliced turkey sandwiches with cranberry sauce, carrots and celery sticks or coleslaw, juice box, cherry tart, and a Christmas orange.  Add to that a box of home-made baking and surely the Christmas spirit should linger with each of our recipients throughout the season.

As you can imagine our elves have been busy.  While the lunches are assembled, stories are shared, laughter is enjoyed and we are upheld in the Christmas spirit … all while sanitized, masked, gloved, and as socially distanced as possible. This project has been a pleasure for all involved. Thanks to all who provided their services carving turkeys, picking up supplies, delivering boxes, baking, making sandwiches, preparing labels, and cleaning up.  The hands of our volunteers represent our congregation’s outreach spreading a little Christmas good cheer to those who might need a helping hand.