Serving kindness for Christmas

The Kelowna Gospel Mission’s (KGM) is getting ready for their annual Christmas lunch and dinner for their residents at the Bay and Leon Shelter as well as delivering warm to-go meals to people sheltering outdoors by KGM Outreach on December 23 and 25.

KGM will be hosting different meals throughout the weekend to support the needs of residents.

Jeremy Luypen, Food Service Manager of KGM, along with his team and volunteer groups, know that food connects people together.

“The Christmas season is about extending kindness and also extending your table,” Luypen said. “When food is served and passed around the table with true gratitude and appreciation for one another we have a deeper understanding of each other and that’s what makes these meals so special.”

With the help of community partners, such as Okanagan Chef Association (OCA), local chefs, the Mission Group, TELUS, KGM’s dedicated volunteers, and generous food donors, KGM is able to expand its service. New this Christmas season, KGM Outreach will serve around 130 meals at OS4 on December 23 and 25.

Saturday the 23rd is a resident lunch at the Bay and Leon shelter where KGM will serve 250 residents and invited special guests.

Because of the immense support and collaboration, Luypen said “we are doing more than just filling stomachs and making memories, we are filling souls and hearts with something greater.”

“In a time where kindness and compassion are more crucial than ever, KGM is dedicated to making a memorable time of connecting over a meal and spreading joy this Christmas season,” a news release said.

Kelowna’s Gospel Mission greatly appreciates the support from the community. To donate, visit their website www.kelownagospelmission.ca/donate.