Carmichael Outreach provides Christmas meals

With Christmas just a couple of days away, Carmichael Outreach provided the gift of a hot meal on Thursday.

Tyler Gelsinger, Carmichael’s food service and operations manager, said the organization gave out between 350 and 400 meals to people in need. Gelsinger said about 75 per cent of the meal came from donations Carmichael received.

“I tried my best this year to make sure they get a full plate today so they at least had some leftovers,” Gelsinger said. “The reaction (from the people) is always kind, they’re always grateful for it and they really appreciate everything we do for them.”

Gelsinger said the organization also handed out toys and snacks to go along with the meal.

He said it’s important that these types of programs are available to people, especially during tough years like much of the world has faced during the COVID pandemic.

“Given certain barriers and social norms, some people just can’t have Christmas,” Gelsinger said. “Charities like this and other organizations are really important because that’s all some people get.

“It’s very heartwarming to see what the community does for us and how we turn their donations into a meal that helps people and feeds them and gets them full.”

Gelsinger said Carmichael wanted to make sure nothing went to waste, so any food that was left over will be donated to the community fridge.

If people are looking to donate around Christmas and into the new year, Gelsinger said the charity could use more food items for its hamper program.