Third annual fancy feast for the less fortunate

The inside of the Sally Ann in Regina was transformed into something that resembled a formal dining room, as dozens of those in need were treated to a fancy feast.

 The Salvation Army Haven of Hope Ministries and SaskEnergy put on an “Elegant Dinner” Thursday morning for about 60 people. John Gopher was one of them.

“Surprises like this are awesome,” he said.

A three-course meal was served, consisting of a starter salad, a roast beef and mashed potato main course, and dessert. Servers in white dress shirts and bow ties placed the food down on tables covered in a white linen cloth, with fresh flowers on top.

The meal replaces the usual Thursday ‘Lunch with Sally’. But it’s all more than just food for Gopher.

“Lets us know that we’re not alone, that there are people out here that care. Sometimes it’s hard to find but there are people out here. There are good people that care and there are people that give a damn.”

A spokesperson for Sally Ann, Val Wiks said after overspending on Christmas, January can be a tough month for those even with employment, so it’s especially tough for those without jobs looking for a consistent, warm meal. She said now seemed like an opportune time to offer the upscale experience.

“Usually when they go to places to get food it’s not a three-course roast beef dinner with salad and dessert, it’s soup in a soup line, and so our whole goal is dignity and respect,” she described.

This is the third year the fancy dinner has been put on.