Courtesy of recent contributions, the monthly Cooking for Kindness community luncheon is expected to be able to continue at least until the spring.
"Right now we've got enough to cover until March," organizer Lourelle Vooys said during the Oct. 18 luncheon at the Sundre Legion.
"It's looking good. We received a relatively large donation before the dinner. I think it's going to work out so we can do our ninth year."
Previously, there was only enough funding left to organize the November luncheon, but Vooys never seemed to have any doubts that generous contributors would step up to save the day.
"I've been doing this a long time now and I know a little something about our community," she said last month, adding that Sundre is a giving community and expressed confidence that donations would be sure to come in once the monthly meals resumed following the summer break.
Run entirely by volunteers and with donations, Cooking for Kindness is a free monthly meal for people in the community who have mental or physical challenges, or those who may be isolated. The event costs approximately $1,100 per meal every month.
The intent is to ensure that seniors and anyone who simply wants to socialize with other people have an opportunity to get out at least once a month to enjoy a nutritious meal with friends. It takes upwards of 20 volunteers to put on each of the monthly events that average about 150 attendees each.
"The whole town works together," said Vooys, calling the group of volunteers who pitch in the "hope team."
"The volunteers who get involved to help and serve give you hope," she said.
Anyone interested in offering a donation can make arrangements by reaching Vooys at 403-638-3378 or by dropping off a check at the Greenwood Neighbourhood Place office in that organization's name earmarked with Cooking for Kindness.
