Committee accepting donations for Community Christmas Eve Dinner

A group of citizens who recognized that not everyone could enjoy the season started the Hungry Lonely Christmas Eve Dinner in 1984. Therefore, in the city of Moberly, with a population of 13,000 an annual tradition began. That first Christmas Eve 75 people turned out in the basement of a local church. Over the years, that number has gradually increased to over 1,500 meals being served at the dinner and 400 hot meals delivered to shut-ins.

In 2006, the committee changed the name to Community Christmas Eve Dinner with the hope that the community would feel that anyone and everyone is invited to attend the dinner and festivities. The dinner is attended by people who do not have a family, old and young, and the rich and poor. Many natives of the Moberly area, who come back home from out of state to spend the Christmas holiday with their family, bring their entire family to the dinner to enjoy their Christmas Eve together helping with the Community Christmas Eve Dinner.

This event is held at Moberly Area Community College Activity Center and attracts people area wide. In addition to a turkey and ham dinner with all the trimmings, prizes and gifts are awarded throughout the evening. No one leaves empty handed. With the focus toward the children in attendance, Santa makes an appearance just before heading out on his Christmas Deliveries.

The generosity of citizens and merchants make this event possible. Each year, starting with no funding, a committee begins planning and soliciting donations from the community. Cash donations are used for expenses and the purchase of food and prizes. This year we have achieved 501C3 status, our identification number is 264072186. This means that the merchants who have supported this cause can now receive a tax advantage. Merchandise donations are given away at the dinner and food donations are used to prepare the dinner.

The 27^th Annual Community Christmas Eve Dinner will be December 24^th, 2010. Dinner will be served from 5 pm until 7 pm. Volunteers are welcome to help us set up at 11am, serve the meal, clear the tables and clean the Activity Center after the festivities. We need donations of food, desserts, and pies, white elephant gifts, and monetary funds as well.

Donations can be given to the committee begins planning and soliciting donations from the community. Monetary donations can be left at City Bank, mailed to Crystal Robinson, 2407 County Road 2315, Moberly, Mo, 65270, or dropped off at Bob’s Butcher Shop. We thank you for your support and wish you a very Merry Christmas.

Scott & Crystal Robinson

660-263-2949

Francis & Joan Joseph

660-263-3592

Tabitha Rodgers

660-651-4203

Frank & Stachia

660-676-2681

Ralph & Joyce Hunter

660-263-3285

Josh & Loretta Robinson

660-998-2958

Jack & Jeanette Regan

660-777-3402