A local relief agency is making the holidays happier for the people it serves.
Windsor's Downtown Mission threw open its doors Thursday for its annual Christmas party. Members of the community participated in a full-scale feast with their families and the mission's volunteers.
The day began with a Christmas sing-along provided by Music Express, who presented the mission with a $2,200 donation. People were then invited downstairs for a complete holiday dinner that executive director Ron Dunn says is unique for the mission.
"Today is the one day of the year that we serve at the table versus cafeteria-style," says Dunn. "Everybody's dressed in their Christmas best and we've got 15 turkeys roasted with all the trimmings, and we're going to have just a traditional Christmas dinner."
Numerous tables were set up in the dining area, each with a festive place setting. The mission says it is expecting about 250 people, all of whom would be treated to a visit from Santa Claus and receive a gift.
The holiday dinner is one of many programs offered by the mission to those in the community who are less fortunate. Dunn says the holiday gathering is important because Christmas time can be especially rough for those experiencing poverty and homelessness.
"Everybody wants to be with somebody at Christmas," says Dunn. "Those experiencing homelessness and extreme poverty are no different. We welcome everybody we can in. Everybody wants to get a present at Christmastime and feel good."
Those who volunteer at the Mission are hearing countless stories from people who stop in. Charlotte Kirkey-Figuary says the mission is one place she's been helping for years, and it's not the only place needing help during the holidays.
"I find myself in a lot of places during the holiday season," says Kirkey-Figuary. "There was the Salvation Army dinner last night and there are other ones coming up at other churches that I go to and help out and see what's happening."
The mission provides hot meals and shelter for homeless, as well as a food bank, sanctuary and wellness programs, and a crisis centre.