Last year, the Copper Cliff Italian Club hosted a Christmas dinner for those who aren't able to spend the holiday in a family setting.
The dinner was the brainchild of Ward 2 Coun. Michael Vagnini, who said he realized there were a lot of people in the ward — especially seniors — who didn't have any family.
The event, which attracted more than 100 people in 2015, was such a success that it's back for a second year.
“It was so amazing,” said Marika Urso, general manager of the Copper Cliff Italian Club.
“We had quite a few people that were so emotional because they said it was the best Christmas they had in 20 years. Normally on Christmas Day they feel all depressed and forgotten about.
“It was just so nice for them to be able to celebrate Christmas again after so many years. That was one of the reasons why we've decided to do it again.
“This year I actually started receiving phone calls from people in November asking 'Are you putting it together again, because I'm really looking forward to it?'”
This year's event begins at 3:30 p.m. Christmas Day.
There'll be hot drinks, a three-course meal including homemade lasagna and turkey rolls and games where people will have a chance to win prizes. Vagnini will be the event's MC.
Takeout plates will be available for people working on Christmas Day — such as firefighters or hospital workers — as long as they can send someone to pick up the food.
Meals cost $10 per person, but you're still welcome to attend if you can't pay.
The club, a non-profit organization, is seeking donations to cover the cost of meals for people who can't afford the cost, as well as prizes for games and food items that can be incorporated into the meal.
Urso said the club is also working on finding bus transportation for those who can't get to the venue by themselves. Last year volunteers picked up and dropped off participants.
The Copper Cliff Italian Club is located at 7 Craig Street, in the Little Italy portion of Copper Cliff. Phone 705-682-4513 or visit italianclub.ca for more information.
